### What is an Amalgam Tattoo? An amalgam tattoo is a benign discoloration in the mouth caused by dental fillings. These tattoos appear as slightly gray or black spots, usually less than 0.5 inches across. They are flat and do not have any noticeable symptoms. ### Causes Amalgam tattoos are caused by tiny particles of dental amalgam, a material used in silver dental fillings. When dental fillings are removed, these particles can become embedded in the soft tissue of the mouth. Over time, the metal particles leak silver into the tissue, creating a tattoo-like discoloration. ### Symptoms Amalgam tattoos are typically harmless and do not pose any health risks. They appear as dark spots in the mouth, often near a tooth that has or had a dental amalgam filling. ### Diagnosis Your dentist can diagnose an amalgam tattoo based on its appearance and your dental history. In some cases, a dental radiograph may be used to detect the presence of metal particles. ### Treatment Amalgam tattoos are permanent but pose no health risks. If you find them cosmetically unacceptable, treatment options include: - **Surgical Excision**: Removing the discolored tissue with a surgical knife or scalpel. - **Laser Treatment**: Using lasers to destroy the tattoo particles, which are then safely removed. ### Other Conditions to Consider Amalgam tattoos can resemble other conditions like mucosal melanoma, hemangioma, drug-induced hyperpigmentation, and graphite tattoos. Further testing may be required to rule out these possibilities.