Why Dr. Donn Recommends Tooth-Colored Fillings
Why Should You Replace Your Silver Fillings?
Dental practices relied on silver mercury amalgam fillings for many decades, making it likely that most people have had at least one placed at some point. A number of factors have contributed to a gradual move away from their use in recent years. Porcelain tooth-colored fillings are what Dr. Donn recommends as a replacement, as they tend to produce a structurally stronger tooth and offer improved aesthetic results.
The Disadvantages of Silver Fillings
Silver fillings are prone to gradual deterioration along their edges, weakening over time until they eventually fracture. A broken filling leaves the underlying tooth vulnerable to bacterial infiltration and cavity formation. Silver fillings also undergo repeated expansion and contraction with temperature changes, a process that can place enough stress on the surrounding tooth structure to cause it to crack, again creating conditions that allow bacteria to enter and cavities to develop. An additional consideration is that silver fillings are composed of approximately 50% mercury, a material that can corrode and leach over time, potentially causing discoloration of the surrounding teeth and gum tissue.
The Advantages of Tooth-Colored Fillings With First Choice Dental of NJ
Because resin onlays bond directly to the tooth structure, they achieve a very close fit that surpasses what silver fillings can provide. Preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible is a consistent priority in this approach. When a significant portion of the original tooth has been lost, resin restorations can still be used to address the damage, allowing the remaining tooth to be kept intact.
Also, the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contains fluoride, which helps to fight off decay. The resin wears like a natural tooth and does not require placement at the gum line. This results in a wonderful, natural-looking smile.
If you’re interested in replacing your silver fillings with tooth-colored resin fillings, please reach out to schedule a consultation. Give us a call at 856-424-7477 or email us.