Health Leader, Silver Fillings

Silver Fillings

What is a dental amalgam?

Dental amalgams, or silver fillings, are made from a mixture of silver, copper and tin, and are bound with mercury
Amalgams can be the most affordable, quickest way to restore teeth, and is used in about 50% of all dental cases

Is a dental amalgam safe?

No scientific studies have demonstrated that the mercury contained in dental amalgam is harmful
The United States Public Health Service and the Food and Drug Administration Dental Products Panel have determined that amalgam is safe for preserving a tooth's structure

Are there other options to amalgams?

The decision to replace the amalgam depends on esthetic concerns, cost, tooth location, your wishes and time demands
Other materials include gold, porcelain and composite resin

Reprinted with permission from the Academy of General Dentistry

Inside HealthLeader:

Last Minute Turkey and Stuffing Safety Tips

Wash hands, cutting surfaces, utensils—anything that has come in contact with raw turkey—for at least 30 seconds with soap--and scrubbing friction. Rinse well.
Clean each food prep surface and your hands with soap and water (as above) before starting the next recipe.
A stuffed turkey takes anywhere from 18 to 24 minutes per pound to cook thoroughly. Make sure the meat thermometer is inserted in the middle of the bird, and not touching bone or pan. Best placement is in the thigh for dark meat and deep in breast for white.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Dark meat should register 180 degrees, white meat, 170 and stuffing, 165 degrees.
Food should not be left out at room temperature longer than two hours.
Leftovers should be stored in shallow containers and refrigerated promptly.
Turkey should be used within 3-4 days. Gravy and stuffing, 1-2.
You can freeze leftovers and use within a few months for flavor retention.