Can Silver Fillings be Replaced with White Fillings?

If you've just discovered that you need a filling or that one of your old fillings needs to be replaced, you may want to consider the use of white fillings.

Many patients often wonder, can silver fillings be replaced with white fillings? The answer is yes.

Dental amalgam, or "silver filling material" has been used for over one hundred and fifty years. It is one of the sturdiest, safest and inexpensive materials used to fill cavities.

The exposure of mercury from dental amalgam is less than what you are exposed to in food, water, and the environment.

So while the amount of mercury in dental amalgam is safe, this does not mean that you should not consider replacing your silver fillings with white fillings.

Composite fillings, which are also known as white fillings are tooth-colored mixtures of plastic and glass used in restoring teeth that have decayed.

Composites are most commonly used in cosmetic improvements. The color of the teeth can be changed for a brighter smile.

A disfigured tooth can even be reshaped for a more even smile.

There are a wide variety of composites available. After the composite has been shaped to fit the tooth, it is hardened using a light designed specifically for this process. Then, the dentist will polish the composite to help it blend in with your other teeth as well as make sure that it will withstand discoloration from everyday wear.

Composite fillings return most of the original strength to the tooth since they adhere to the tooth.

This bond helps insulate the tooth from extreme temperature changes and also helps prevent breakage.

These features make composites very desirable especially if you desire a smile without the dark spots within your mouth associated with silver fillings.

We would be more than happy to answer any additional questions that you may have about making the switch to white fillings.

The procedure is simple and can be done right in our office on the day of your appointment. If you are interested in replacing your silver fillings, give us a call today!