My honest opinion on silver fillings

Amalgam. In some practices there’s a time and place for it—just not in any of mine.

Whether you love it or hate it, here are a few reasons why amalgam still has its place in dentistry:

• Amalgam is less technique-sensitive than composite, so it's easier for new clinicians to work with.
• Amalgam costs less than composites to place (and the savings is not just for the patient).
• Dentists, here’s the one to remember so you’re not upset with your dental school. It makes NO difference what material you use more of as a student when it comes to learning. The goal is learn to think: when should I use what, when, where, and—big key—why? Hand-skill-wise, if you can prep an ideal amalgam, prepping an ideal any-other-material is all about understanding what material needs what shape and thickness.

So, what do YOU think? Do you love or hate amalgam? Go to YouTube to leave a comment. 

Read more about it ... Mercury and dental amalgam fillings: Pros and cons

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Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Through the Loupes newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe to Through the Loupes.