Metal Free Dental Fillings in Prescott AZ
Several years ago when a patient had a cavity there was only one material the dentist would use to fill the cavity with. The only material available was a silver metal material that was very visible when a person would talk or laugh. Now 20 plus years later, with the advancements in dentistry, a new white filling material is used.
At Prescott Dental Arts we offer to our patients white fillings or composite fillings that are metal-free and tooth-colored. These metal fillings are extremely popular and have many advantages. In this article,, we will discuss the advantages of composite fillings as well as discuss the disadvantages of metal fillings.
THE DISADVANTAGES TO METAL FILLINGS
Before we discuss the advantages of metal free composite fillings, it’s important to know the disadvantages to metal fillings. Metal fillings or amalgam fillings consist of silver alloy and mercury. This material is very durable and has a negative effect on the appearance of teeth because of its dark metallic color. The filling itself is dark in color and very noticeable and can make a tooth look black. Amalgam fillings also cause staining around the tooth enamel and contribute to the tooth appearing dark and gray.
Aside from its unappealing appearance the material itself can be harmful to some. Some people can develop an allergy to the metal that is in amalgam fillings. Also, some people can begin to develop health problems due to the trace amounts of mercury in the metal fillings. Although the amounts of mercury are very small some people, about 1 percent of the population, can be sensitive to the material and develop health issues. Another disadvantage to the amalgam fillings is as they age they take in moisture and begin to expand.
This expansion can begin to cause fractures in the tooth structure that surrounds the metal filling and weaken it. Amalgam fillings can also cause sensitivity when eating or drinking. Lastly, because metal amalgam fillings do not bond to tooth enamel, more tooth structure must be removed to hold the filling in. This can make the tooth weak and more susceptible to cracks and breaking completely.
ADVANTAGES TO COMPOSITE FILLINGS
Composite fillings were made from resin and contain no metal. These fillings are a white color and can be easily matched to a patient’s natural tooth color. When a person laughs or smiles the filling becomes virtually unseen. Also because composite fillings are tooth-colored they can be used to fill cavities in front teeth. They can also be used cosmetically to improve the look of teeth that may have gaps or discoloration.
Unlike metal fillings, composite fillings do not contain metal or mercury. This is a great alternative for patients that have a sensitivity to mercury or metal. Also because composite fillings are bonded to tooth enamel they do not require a lot of tooth structure to be removed. This helps preserve tooth strength and helps protect from cracks and fractures. Lastly, composite fillings are also beneficial because they are extremely durable and can last for years.
At Prescott Dental Arts we do composite fillings daily. We take pride in providing for our patients, fillings, that are durable and natural-looking. If you need a filling or would like to learn more about replacing your current metal fillings with white fillings schedule your consultation with Dr. Herbert, our dentist in Prescott AZ. Call us at (928) 445-8980
Call us at (928) 445-8980
Prescott Dental Arts
1787 Willow Creek Rd.
Prescott, AZ 86301
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1787 Willow Creek Rd
Prescott, AZ 86301
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