Tooth Fillings/Restorations

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. However, they last many years and are proven successful. 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  some 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 may contain up to 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak and cause stains on your teeth and gums. However silver fillings are still an acceptable form of tooth restorations around the world.

Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with Tooth-Colored Restorations when decay is present.

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.

For those patients who have a high frequency and amount of dental cavities there are specialized filling materials that contain fluoride to help prevent future decay.

The result is a beautiful smile!

Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration (Onlays)

You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This process requires one or two appointments. Often this approach is more conservative than a tooth colored crown.

Your First Appointment:

1. The old filling is removed along with any additional decay.
2. A digital impression is made of your teeth.
3. A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.
4. If possible you may receive your new onlay during the same appointment.

Your Second Appointment (if needed):

1. The temporary onlay is removed.
2. A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
3. Bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
4. The tooth is then polished.

Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!