For centuries, silver fillings were a popular way to fill cavities. However, with dental advancements and evolving technology, most dentists now use tooth-colored resin or porcelain crowns to treat cavities due to their natural look and durability. If you have a silver filling, you may want to consider getting it replaced due to potential mercury exposure, limited strength, size changes, and appearance. At Dental Wellness, we utilize the latest techniques to treat cavities and replace silver fillings so you can have the best treatment available.
Our experienced team understands the limitations of silver fillings and can help you determine if yours needs to be replaced. With our composite resin fillings, crowns, and other restorative treatments, you can achieve a healthy, bright smile without the metal. We work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs, improves oral health, and considers your overall well-being. Our caring professionals always put your comfort first, so you can rest assured your smile is in the right hands.
4 Reasons to Remove Your Silver Fillings
Silver fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, use a combination of mercury, silver, copper, tin, and zinc to fill cavities in the teeth. While this was the standard treatment method for tooth decay for decades, their use has significantly declined, accounting for less than 6% of posterior tooth fillings in 2022. With this method becoming considerably less popular, you may wonder if you should get yours replaced.
At Dental Wellness, we may recommend you get your silver fillings removed and replaced with our composite resin fillings for the following reasons:
Mercury Exposure
Silver fillings contain a mixture of metals, including elemental mercury. When you chew with these fillings, mercury vapors get released into the air. While there is no direct link between mercury in silver fillings and health issues, removing them eliminates the contact and potential exposure risk.
Aesthetics
With the shiny and silver appearance of amalgam fillings, they do not blend in with the rest of your teeth, making them noticeable and a potential point of insecurity. At Dental Wellness, we can remove these fillings and replace them with one made from a tooth-colored resin that blends in with your natural smile. This creates a more seamless look and boosts your confidence.
Expansion and Contraction
The metals in silver fillings are sensitive to temperature, so when you eat hot or cold foods, the fillings can expand and contract. This can put pressure on the surrounding tooth, which can cause chips or breaks. Removing silver fillings can prevent this damage and allow us to replace it with a filling that is not temperature-sensitive.
Minimal Strength
Because silver fillings do not mimic the tooth’s structure and are not bonded directly to the tooth, teeth restored with them do not regain all their strength. In contrast, composite resin fillings bond to the tooth and are applied and cured in layers, making them a durable solution that restores the tooth’s strength.
How Dental Wellness Removes and Replaces Silver Fillings
If you need a silver filling removed, our dedicated team guides you through every stage of the treatment so you always know what to expect. While every patient is different, the process generally involves the following:
- Silver Filling Removal: With safety precautions in place, we break up the silver filling and suction it out to remove vapors and particles. The filling material is safely disposed of, and the mouth is thoroughly rinsed.
- New Filling: Once the silver filling is completely removed and the tooth is cleaned, we refill the affected area with a composite resin material.
- Curing and Polishing: The resin gets cured with a light to harden. Then, we polish and smooth any rough edges.
- Final Check: Lastly, we check your bite to ensure the filling is comfortable and you are satisfied with the results.
During this procedure, we use local anesthesia to ensure a painless and smooth experience. Most patients can return to work, school, and other activities immediately after getting their silver fillings removed and replaced.
Reach Out to Dental Wellness to Learn More About Removing and Replacing Silver Fillings in New York City and New Jersey
At Dental Wellness, we recommend replacing silver fillings with tooth-colored composite resin for better aesthetics, durability, and overall health. Our team uses cutting-edge techniques to offer a safer, more natural-looking alternative to traditional fillings, ensuring your smile is healthy and beautiful.
We understand the limitations of silver fillings, including the potential for mercury exposure, sensitivity to temperature changes, and reduced strength. Let us help you upgrade to a healthier, more seamless smile with our high-quality, mercury-free restorative treatments. Call us at (201) 265-4700 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment today.
