Tooth Fillings
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. Tooth colored inlays and 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. SEE OUR PICTURES BELOW!
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
Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected from microleakage and fracture.
Abfractions: Holes at the gum line or in the root of a tooth
The top picture shows holes at the gum line ( you can see them in yellow, but if you were to see these from the side you'd see the holes so that the white tooth is almost visible as a shelf, with the hole below). The bottom picture shows the tooth-colored synthetic fillings bonded to the teeth to repair the abfractions.
