We are a mercury-free practice. However, many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and tooth-colored restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are esthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.
DISADVANTAGES OF SILVER FILLINGS:
Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and lets cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split.
Silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak and cause stains on your teeth and gums.
Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with tooth-colored restorations.
ADVANTAGES OF TOOTH-COLORED RESTORATIONS
There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin onlays are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.
Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contain fluoride this can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums!
The result is a beautiful smile!
REPLACING SILVER FILLINGS WITH A TOOTH COLORED RESTORATION
You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This process requires two appointments.
Your First Appointment:
- The old filling is removed along with any additional decay.
- An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.
- A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.
At the Lab: A resin is carefully placed into the model of your teeth. It is then designed to look natural.
Your Second Appointment:
- The temporary onlay is removed.
- A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
- Bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
- The tooth is then polished.
Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!
Homecare for Composite Fillings
Homecare recommendations
Now that we’ve placed your resin filling, it’s important to follow these recommendations to ensure its success.
- Floss normally
- Use desensitizing toothpaste
- Rinse with warm salt water
Chewing and eating
If we used an anesthetic during the procedure avoid chewing until the numbness has worn off completely.
Brushing and flossing
Brush and floss normally.
If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure, use desensitizing toothpaste.
Discomfort
Some sensitivity is normal after any tooth has been worked on, especially if there has been tooth decay. Decay irritates it further, to where it can cross the threshold into a painful sensitivity. If this is the only cause, expect the tooth to be getting gradually better, usually within a couple of days, but it can last for several months. As long as the tooth gradually improves, there should be no cause for alarm.
When to call us
Call our office if your bite feels uneven, you have sensitivity or discomfort that increases, or if you have any questions or concerns.