TOOTH FILLINGS IN ARNOLD, MO
We are a mercury-free practice. Unfortunately, many patients have silver or mercury fillings from cavity repair in the past. These fillings are not aesthetically pleasing and ultimately cause a weaker tooth structure.
Meramec Family Dentistry offers tooth-colored fillings in Arnold, MO. Also called white fillings or restorations, porcelain inlays and onlays create fillings that are unnoticeable, look natural, and strengthen weakened teeth. These dental restorations are aesthetically pleasing, functional, and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.
Disadvantages of Silver fillings:
Silver-colored fillings have numerous pitfalls. The filling’s edges can wear down, become weak, or break. When this happens, the tooth is not protected and the cavities can start again. Over time, the metal in a silver filling changes. It can warp, expand, contract, and even split.
Silver amalgam fillings are a mixture of metals and contain 50 percent mercury. They are damaging to your oral health as they may corrode, leak, or create stains on your teeth and gums.
Fortunately, tooth-colored dental restorations can safely replace silver fillings!
ADVANTAGES OF TOOTH-COLORED RESTORATIONS
There are many advantages to tooth-colored fillings and restorations. Resin onlays bond to the teeth to establish a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. These restorations can be used when a significant amount of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.
Tooth-colored restorations are made of a resin material. The resin contains fluoride which helps prevent tooth decay. The material functions like natural teeth. It is not placed at the gum line which helps keep your gums healthy.
The end result is a beautiful, natural-looking smile!
REPLACING SILVER FILLINGS WITH A TOOTH-COLORED RESTORATION
Silver fillings can be replaced with tooth-colored restorations called onlays. Two appointments with Dr. Mandefro are needed to complete the process.
Your First Appointment:
- The old silver filling and any additional decay are removed.
- An impression is made of your teeth and is sent to the lab.
- A temporary restoration is placed on the decayed tooth.
At the Lab: Resin material is carefully placed into the impressions or model of your teeth. The permanent restoration is then fabricated to look natural.
Your Second Appointment:
- The temporary restoration is removed.
- The tooth is prepped with a conditioning gel.
- Bonding cement is applied to the tooth. Using a special high-intensity light, the resin is bonded to the tooth.
- The tooth is smoothed and polished.
At the Lab: Resin material is carefully placed into the impressions or model of your teeth. The permanent restoration is then fabricated to look natural.
Protect your oral health with mercury-free fillings. Meramec Family Dentistry offers tooth-colored fillings and restorations in Arnold, MO to safely restore decayed or damaged teeth. Contact us today for an appointment!
