Is there a reason to convert my silver fillings if they aren t bothering me?
Maybe. Because these fillings are not bonded directly to the tooth there is greater tooth loss involved and ample opportunity for bacteria to develop (a leading cause of periodontal disease and bad breath). If the tooth is compromised by the filling in anyway, a restoration that is “tooth supporting” is desirable. Though we choose not to enter the sensitive argument around the health risks associated with silver fillings, some doctors encourage their removal simply because of the mercury they contain.