Air abrasion . A relatively new technique to the dental field in which a small high pressure spray of aluminum oxide is used to remove decay or drill out pieces of old fillings and even tooth structure. It cuts down the need for a drill in many cases and often can eliminate the need for anesthetic since there is less trauma to the tooth while it is being used. It acts like a mini sand blaster and works excellently in preparing teeth for sealants or conservative dental care. Silver fillings have been used for dental filling material for about 100 years.
Amalgams tend to have a higher rate of causing tooth stresses and fractures .
However, since amalgams are the least expensive type of filling, most insurance companies only pay for amalgam fillings. ADA position on Amalgam . Anterior Teeth . These are the front eight teeth on the upper or lower jaw. Generally caused by wear, long term usage, heavy usage of the teeth.