When repairing a small cavity, a dental amalgam filling, also known as a silver filling can restore your tooth to shape and function in a cost-effective manner. Dental amalgam is made of a mixture of metals, and is most commonly used to repair cavities in the back of the mouth. It is an extremely durable material, and has been the go-to material for fillings for many years. During the first step, your tooth is prepared by removing the decayed portion, leaving a small area that will be filled with the amalgam. Your dentist then applies the amalgam to the prepared area, presses it into place to create a good seal, and then shapes it to match the contours of the tooth surface. As a final step, the amalgam is then polished to create a smooth finish on the tooth’s surface. Once completed, your tooth is free of decay and restored to its natural strength and durability.
