Tooth Fillings

We are a mercury-free dental practice. While many patients still have silver (amalgam) fillings from years past, these restorations are often noticeable and, due to their design, can weaken the natural tooth structure over time.

Porcelain inlays and tooth-colored restorations (onlays) offer a modern alternative. These restorations are carefully bonded to the tooth, providing exceptional strength while preserving more of the natural tooth. In addition, they blend seamlessly with your smile, making them virtually unnoticeable.

Thanks to advances in bonding technology, porcelain inlays and onlays are both durable and esthetically pleasing, offering a long-lasting solution that enhances the appearance and strength of your teeth.

Disadvantages of Silver (Amalgam) Fillings

Silver (amalgam) fillings have been used for many years, but they do have several disadvantages. Over time, the edges of a silver filling can wear down, weaken, or fracture. When this occurs, the tooth may no longer be properly sealed, allowing decay to develop around or beneath the filling.

As silver fillings age, the metal can expand and contract with temperature changes. This movement may place stress on the surrounding tooth structure and can contribute to cracks or fractures.

Silver fillings are made from a mixture of metals, including mercury. Over time, they may corrode or discolor, which can lead to staining of the tooth or surrounding gum tissue and affect the appearance of your smile.

Fortunately, silver fillings can often be safely replaced with tooth-colored restorations, which are designed to bond directly to the tooth, improve strength, and blend naturally with your smile.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

Tooth-colored restorations offer many benefits for both the health and appearance of your smile. Resin onlays are securely bonded to the tooth, creating a precise, durable fit that closely mimics the natural tooth structure. These restorations are an excellent option when a significant portion of the tooth has been lost, helping to preserve and strengthen the remaining tooth.

Many tooth-colored materials contain fluoride, which can aid in reducing the risk of future decay. Because these restorations wear similarly to natural teeth, they function comfortably and naturally. In addition, they often do not require placement at the gum line, which can contribute to improved gum health.

Best of all, tooth-colored restorations blend seamlessly with your natural teeth—resulting in a strong, healthy, and beautiful smile.

Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth-Colored Restoration

Silver fillings can often be replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays) to improve both the strength and appearance of your teeth. This treatment is typically completed over two appointments.

First Appointment

During your first visit:

• The existing silver filling is removed, along with any decay.

• An impression of your tooth is taken and sent to a dental laboratory to create a custom restoration.

• A temporary onlay is placed to protect the tooth while your permanent restoration is being made.

At the Laboratory:
A high-quality resin material is carefully crafted on a model of your tooth and shaped to look natural and fit precisely.

Second Appointment

At your second visit:

• The temporary onlay is removed.
• The tooth is prepared with a conditioning gel to ensure a strong bond.
• The custom onlay is bonded to the tooth using a specialized dental cement and a high intensity curing light.
• The restoration is polished for comfort and a natural appearance.

Once completed, your tooth is stronger, protected, and restored to a natural look and feel, enhancing both your oral health and your smile.