# Should Old Silver Fillings Be Replaced?

Many adults have silver (amalgam) fillings placed years ago. A common question at check-ups is whether they should come out. The short answer from Smiles By Bis, which provides Dental Fillings in Oakville, is: not always.

# When replacement is usually recommended

The practice’s fillings page explains that an old filling is replaced when it is cracked, leaking or has decay under it. These are structural reasons. A filling that is intact and sealed may simply be monitored at regular exams.

Signs that an older filling may need attention include:

• A visible crack or a chipped edge
• A dark line or gap where the filling meets the tooth
• Food catching around it
• New sensitivity in a tooth that used to be comfortable
• Decay seen on an X-ray beneath or beside it

# Replacing for other reasons

Some patients want silver fillings replaced for appearance or personal health preferences. The practice says it explains how this is done safely on its holistic dentistry page. A conversation with the dentist beforehand helps you understand what is involved for your specific teeth.

# What replacement involves

The old material and any decay are removed, the tooth is cleaned, and a new filling is placed. When appropriate, tooth-coloured materials can be used. If a lot of tooth structure is missing, a filling may not be enough, and the practice notes that a large filling on a heavily loaded tooth may eventually need a crown.

# Questions to ask before deciding

• Is the current filling failing, or is this an elective change?
• How much healthy tooth will remain afterwards?
• Which material is suitable for this tooth and my bite?
• What are the fees and procedure codes for my insurance?

The office says it can provide procedure codes and fees ahead of treatment so you can check coverage with your plan.

# A reliable source

The Canadian Dental Association’s fillings page describes how dentists assess existing fillings during an exam and when they may suggest replacing loose or broken ones.

# Contact

Smiles By Bis is at 710 Dorval Dr #220, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7, and the phone number is (905) 338-6684. The office is accepting new patients, and no referral is needed.

This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Details about Smiles By Bis come from smilesbybis.com; please check the website or call the office for current information.