Dental Amalgam
What is Dental Amalgam?
Dental Amalgam is a commonly used dental filling that has been used for over 150 years. It is a mixture of mercury with at least one other metal. Amalgam has many advantages over other restorative material, such as low cost, strength, durability, and bacteriostatic effects.
Benefits of Dental Amalgam
Amalgam is used in dentistry for a number of reasons. It is relatively easy to use and manipulate during placement; it remains soft for a short time so it can be packed to fill any irregular volume, and then forms a hard compound. Amalgam possesses greater longevity than other direct restorative materials, such as composite. On average, most amalgam restorations serve for 10 to 12 years, whereas resin-based composites serve for about half that time. However, with recent improvements in composite material science and a better understanding of the technique-sensitivity of placement, it should be noted that this difference is decreasing.
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Composite Fillings vs. Amalgam Fillings
There are circumstances in which composite (white fillings) serves better than amalgam; when amalgam is not indicated, or when a more conservative preparation would be beneficial, composite is the recommended restorative material. These situations would include small occlusal restorations, in which amalgam would require the removal of a more sound tooth structure, as well as in “enamel sites beyond the height of contour.”
The American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs has concluded that both amalgam and composite materials are considered safe and effective for tooth restoration.
Ashby P. Clanton, DDS
Patient Review
My family and I have been patients of Dr. Clanton for about 10 years. I wanted to express my appreciation for the excellent care we have all received from him and his staff. They are always very caring and gentle!! Thank you for all you do!!!
- Sam T
Patient Review
I have been coming to Dr. Clanton for several years. He and his staff are top notch! I am always greeted in a friendly manner and made to feel very welcome. The dental team is very professional and their work is always thorough. I would highly recommend Dr. Clanton if you are looking for a dentist!!
- Susan B
Patient Review
After years of no cavities and pride in my dental hygiene, I was shocked to discover that I needed several fillings at my routine cleaning. Dr. Clanton explained that my cleanings, while effective, were not as thorough as they could have been, and I was in need of restorative treatment. Admittedly, I was terrified of the treatment, although my wife and son helped quell my fears. With a new pep in my step, I went to Dr. Clanton, who has a great staff and who was very caring and concerned that I felt relaxed and had a great experience. The atmosphere at Dr. Clanton’s office is a place where you can go back to and feel relaxed. I made my next check up for six months! Dr. Clanton makes me smile!
- John Arthur
Patient Review
Dr. Clanton and staff are outstanding. I have recommended him to many people and ALL have thanked me.
- Dan P
Patient Review
Dr. Clanton and his staff have taken care of my dental needs for over 20 years. When I when in for my initial consult many years ago, I had multiple needs from fillings, crowns, bridges and dental implants.Dr. Clanton prioritized my needs and over time has restored my dental health. He takes great pride in his work and I have received numerous compliments on my smile. If you have dental emergencies, he is always willing to work you into the schedule. Dr. Clanton and his staff are very welcoming, office setting is lovely, and I feel well cared for and among friends.
- Karen F
Patient Review
We have been with Dr. Clanton for years. He and his staff are the best ever!
- Judy H
Patient Review
Professional and caring; Dr. Clanton has a true heart for his patients. From emergency and restorative procedures, I would trust no one else to completely fulfill our dental needs.
- James H
Patient Review
Last Thursday night, I was enjoying a meal of corn on the cob when - disaster struck! Where before there had been plump, juicy, yellow kernels, I noticed a shimmering white tooth lodged in the butter-sodden cob. I was very concerned; as I am a graduate student at ETSU, and having just started the school year, I didn't have a dentist in the area. Dr. Clanton is the dentist for one of my classmates and his family, so I was able to get into his office without a scheduled appointment and was quickly worked in for my emergency. Ava was my dental assistant and she made me feel very comfortable and relieved my typical fears of the dentist (I have been avoiding getting my teeth cleaned for the past few years). With my newly intact crown, I will be back for a cleaning and will recommend Dr. Clanton's office to all of my classmates. Go Bucs!
- James S
Patient Review
I have been a patient of Dr. Clanton's practice for over 20 years. Office location is very convenient and it seems like I am visiting with friends at each appointment. Thank you to this great Dental Team!
- Traci D
Patient Review
Outstanding visit - staff is always friendly and accommodating! Highly recommend this office!
- Sarah J