Dental fillings are a reliable way to restore teeth damaged by cavities. Silver fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, were once the standard option for dental restoration. Developments in technology and dental techniques have made alternatives like composite resin fillings more popular. At CITIDental Boston, we help patients replace their silver fillings with modern options that are safer, more aesthetically pleasing, and better for your oral health.
Why Replace Silver Fillings?
Silver fillings are durable and effective, but they come with drawbacks that may make replacement the best option:
- Aesthetic Concerns: The metallic appearance of silver fillings can affect the natural look of your smile, especially for fillings in visible teeth.
- Cracks and Leaks: Over time, silver fillings can expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially leading to cracks in the tooth or gaps between the filling and tooth surface.
- Mercury Content: Amalgam fillings contain mercury, which some patients prefer to avoid due to health and environmental concerns.
- Wear and Tear: Older fillings may weaken over time, compromising their ability to protect the tooth effectively.
The Replacement Process
Replacing silver fillings is a straightforward process handled with care by the professionals at CITIDental Boston.
- Assessment: During your consultation, our Boston dentist will examine your silver fillings and discuss whether replacement is necessary. Not all fillings need immediate replacement unless they show signs of damage or wear.
- Removal: If replacement is advised, the old filling is carefully removed while ensuring the tooth structure is preserved.
- Restoration: Composite resin, a tooth-colored material, is applied and shaped to blend seamlessly in appearance with your natural teeth.
- Final Adjustments: After curing the filling with a special light, we polish and adjust it to ensure a comfortable and functional bite.
Benefits of Composite Fillings
Composite fillings offer several advantages over silver fillings:
- Natural Appearance: They match the color of your teeth, being virtually invisible.
- Durability: Modern materials are strong and can withstand daily wear.
- Conservation of Tooth Structure: Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, requiring less removal of healthy enamel during placement.
When to Consider Replacement
If your silver fillings are aging, damaged, or a source of discomfort, it’s a good time to consider replacement. Additionally, if you want a more natural-looking smile, replacing silver fillings is an excellent cosmetic enhancement.
At CITIDental Boston, our goal is to provide long-lasting, high-quality dental care. Whether you’re interested in replacing silver fillings or need a routine checkup, we’re here to help. We offer services to patients of all ages ranging from cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening and veneers to Invisalign and dental implants. Here, you’ll find the dental services you need for yourself and your entire family.
Schedule an appointment today to explore your options. You can contact us by phone or via our online contact form here. We have several offices around the Boston area, including locations on Court Street and Tremont Street. Choose the location that’s most convenient for you!