Disadvantages of Silver (Amalgam) Fillings
In addition to detracting from your smile, silver fillings have several disadvantages:
- The edges of silver fillings can wear down, leaving the tooth unprotected
- Silver fillings can expand and contract, and over time they can split
- Silver fillings contain 50% mercury, which can corrode then leak and cause staining
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations
Not only do tooth-colored fillings allow you to maintain the natural beauty of your smile, they offer many advantages over silver fillings:
- The composite resin fillings have a superior fit to the natural tooth
- Resin restorations can restore and strengthen tooth structure
- Resin restorations contain fluoride, which helps prevent decay
Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration
If you are concerned with the appearance and safety of your silver fillings, we can replace them. Expect the following procedures to take place:
- The old filling is removed, as is any new decay
- The tooth will be prepared with a conditioning gel
- A bonding cement and intensity light will bond the resin filling to your tooth
- Your tooth will then be polished
The result is an aesthetically appealing, safe, and sturdy restoration.