Amalgam allergic reaction

[Bernie]

Hi

A local dentist did an amalgam filling on my back tooth about two months ago due to my tooth decaying down and becoming very sensitive. At the time he gave me the option of a natural colour filling but I opted to have the amalgam filling as it was cheaper.

Since then, I have developed a white line on the gum near that tooth which was not there before I had the filling done. I read on the internet that this could be an allergic reaction to the amalgam filling.

Although the area does not hurt, I am worried that if I leave it as it is, it could get worst and develop into a bigger problem. What do you advise for treating allergic reactions to amalgams? Should I have the filling removed and changed to a white filling?

[Dr Mohsen J. Esfahani]

Thank you for your post. Allergic reactions to amalgam fillings are very rare and I am surprised that you have developed a white line on your gum. You can if you wish have the filling removed and changed to a white filling.

If the line on the gum does not disappear after the filling change, you will need to see a specialist in oral medicine to assess the cause of this white line and a possible biopsy if necessary.