Tooth Colored Fillings in Santa Rosa

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 resins, 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. For the larger fillings, indirect bonded restorations are the restoration of choice. Please ask us if you are a candidate for this type of restoration.

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. An information sheet regarding the pros and cons of different filling materials will be provided to you.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

There are many advantages to precision-placed tooth colored restorations. Resin fillings and partial crown 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.

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!

 
Before

 
After

“Here are three teeth with old fillings and cavities which were restored with a posterior composite”

 
Before

After

“Posterior composites can make your teeth look new again”

Replacing Silver fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration

You can have your silver fillings replaced with Tooth colored restorations. This process requires one or two appointments. Dental Resin fillings can be placed in one appointment for smaller older fillings or minor to moderate decay.

For larger old fillings and larger decay or fractures partial crowns or onlay restorations can be placed.