Amalgams - Caries Treatment

Understanding amalgam restorations: modern advantages and considerations

Tooth decay is one of the most common oral problems and requires prompt treatment to avoid major complications. For decades, the dental amalgams have been a reliable treatment option for restoring teeth affected by caries, especially in posterior areas subjected to intense masticatory forces.

At Sonrisa Para Todos, we offer a variety of restorative options, including amalgams for specific cases where their characteristics may be advantageous, although we also present modern esthetic alternatives to meet the needs and preferences of all our patients.

Contact

Please provide us with your details and comments so we can connect you as soon as possible.

"*" indicates required fields

What are dental amalgams?

Dental amalgams are traditional restorative materials composed of an alloy of various metals, primarily mercury, silver, tin and copper. This combination creates a durable and strong filling material that has been used in dentistry for over 150 years.

Main characteristics:

  • Exceptional durability - can last 10-15 years or more with proper care
  • High resistance to intense masticatory forces
  • Quick placement requiring less time in the dental chair
  • Fast hardening for easy application in difficult areas
  • More affordable cost compared to other restorative materials
  • Clinical versatility for different treatment situations
Request more information

Ideal indications for amalgam restorations

Favorable clinical situations

  • Extensive caries in posterior molars where esthetics is not a priority
  • Areas of difficult access that complicate isolation during the procedure
  • Cavities below the gumline where it is difficult to keep the field dry
  • Patients with high incidence of caries requiring highly durable restorations.
  • Children and patients with special needs who have difficulty remaining immobile for prolonged periods of time
  • Situations where cost is a determining factor in treatment choice
Request more information

Modern alternatives to amalgams

At Sonrisa Para Todos we offer multiple restorative options adapted to the specific needs of each patient:

Aesthetic and conservative options

  • Composite resins - Tooth-colored, they allow preservation of more healthy tooth structure
  • Ceramic inlays - For larger restorations with excellent esthetics
  • Dental crowns - For cases of significant tooth destruction
  • Glass ionomers - Release fluoride and are useful in specific situations

Each material has its particular indications, advantages and limitations. Our dentists will carefully evaluate each case to recommend the most appropriate option.

The procedure: caries treatment with amalgam

If it is determined that amalgam is the best option for your specific case, the procedure includes:

Step by step process

  • Local anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure
  • Removal of carious tissue preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible
  • Cavity preparation according to specific biomechanical principles
  • Pulp protection when necessary, to avoid sensitivity
  • Placement and condensation of the amalgam in the prepared cavity
  • Carving and polishing to restore dental anatomy and function

The procedure is relatively quick and the amalgam becomes strong enough to chew in a short time, although it is recommended to avoid very hard foods during the first 24 hours.

Request more information
amalgam treatment

Maintenance and durability of amalgam restorations

Our process includes:

  1. Initial assessment and accurate diagnosis by 3D tomography
  2. Customized digital planning of the treatment
  3. Strategic implant placement making the most of the available bone
  4. Immediate installation of fixed temporary prosthesis the same day of surgery
  5. Osseointegration period (3-6 months) with professional follow-up
  6. Placement of definitive prosthesis high aesthetic and functional quality
Request more information

Why choose Sonrisa Para Todos for your cavity treatment?

In our dental clinic:

  • We evaluate each case individually to recommend the optimum restorative material
  • We present all available options with its advantages and limitations
  • We use first quality materials regardless of the type chosen
  • We follow strict protocols for safe handling of all materials
  • We respect the patient's informed decision on the type of restoration
  • We offer modern aesthetic alternatives when clinically appropriate

Consultation with Our Specialists

If you have cavities that require treatment or wish to evaluate the condition of your old restorations, we invite you to a consultation with our specialists. Together we will determine the best option for your specific case, considering clinical, esthetic and budgetary factors.

Request more information

Financing available

We have financing facilities with the main entities in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Amalgams

Are amalgams safe because of their mercury content?

Dental amalgams have been extensively studied and are considered safe by organizations such as the ADA (American Dental Association) and WHO (World Health Organization). The mercury in amalgams is chemically bound to other metals, forming a stable compound.

In certain cases, such as extensive caries in posterior teeth, areas that are difficult to isolate, or in patients at high risk of caries, amalgams can offer significant advantages in terms of durability and ease of placement.

With proper care, amalgams can last 10-15 years or even longer, although this varies depending on the patient's hygiene habits, diet and individual factors.

Modern composite resins have significantly improved their strength and durability, coming closer and closer to the performance of amalgams. Ceramic inlays offer excellent esthetics and durability, although at a higher cost.

Maintain your dental health with proper and timely treatments!

At Sonrisa Para Todos, we combine tradition and modernity to offer you the best dental solutions.

CONTACT