Dental fillings allow the dentists at Astoria Dental Group to restore lost tooth structure with durable and cosmetically pleasing composite fillings. The treatment is often performed following the removal of tooth decay.
If you have one or more silver fillings, our dentists can safely remove your old metal fillings and replace them with tooth-colored composite fillings that blend in with your natural teeth. There are many cosmetic and oral health benefits to having tooth-colored fillings placed at our dental practice serving Queens, NY and Long Island, NY, NYC.
Should I Consider Having My Silver Fillings Replaced?
The decision to have your silver fillings replaced is a personal one. Although silver amalgam fillings have trace amounts of mercury (a known neurotoxin), having silver fillings is not considered a serious health risk. If you have concerns about mercury poisoning, tooth-colored fillings offer a biocompatible and metal-free alternative. Composite resin fillings offer these additional benefits.
Cosmetic Considerations
Metal fillings may not be a major health risk, but they are less attractive if your fillings are visible when you smile. Even when the fillings are hidden on back molars, the dark patches can be an unpleasant reminder of past dental work.
Tooth-colored fillings match the color and luster of enamel. The material contains silica, which has a natural reflective quality. The fillings come in multiple shade options that can be matched to blend in with your natural teeth. Once the fillings are hardened, they will be polished to discreetly blend with your natural teeth.
Improved Comfort
Metal can leave your teeth feeling sensitive to temperature variations. If you have had extensive silver fillings placed, the metal can cause heightened sensitivity since metal conducts heat at a faster rate than composite resin. If you are looking for a restorative option that will not leave you overly sensitive to hot and cold food and drinks, tooth-colored fillings may be right for you.
Another comfort consideration for our Queens-area patients: Unlike metal fillings, composite resin will not expand or contract due to changing temperatures.
How Will My Silver Fillings Be Replaced?
To remove your old silver fillings, we will break the fillings into small chunks that will be safely removed. Steps will be taken to ensure that you are not exposed to mercury during this process. Once the fillings have been removed, the cavity will be cleaned and sanitized. A special etching liquid will then be used to prepare the surface of your tooth.
Once the tooth-colored fillings have been shade-matched to blend in with your smile, we will artfully place the fillings into the cavity to restore structure to your tooth. A special blue light will then be used to quickly harden the material. Minor adjustments can be made to ensure that the fillings do not interfere with your bite.
Revamp Your Smile with Tooth-colored Fillings
Many people find silver fillings to be unattractive. If your metal fillings are a source of discomfort or embarrassment, we can replace them with cosmetically pleasing composite resin. The process is highly affordable and convenient. To learn more or to schedule your next visit, contact our office online or call (718) 557-9366.
