Tooth Fillings Post Falls ID
We are a mercury-free practice. However, many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past.
These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, metal/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain Tooth Colored Restorations (inlays and onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth.
These restorations are esthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.
Disadvantages of metal fillings:
Metal fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the metal filling can wear down, become weak or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and lets cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of the filling expands, contracts, and can split.
Metal fillings contain mercury. They can corrode, leak and cause stains on your teeth and gums.
Fortunately, metal fillings can safely be replaced with Tooth-Colored Restorations.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations
There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Many times if the metal filling is small and/or the decay is found early enough, a routine composite (tooth-colored) filling can be all that is needed.
If it is larger, a porcelain or composite onlay may be required. Composite onlays are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost.
The tooth remains intact and stronger.
If it is a new filling on tooth structure, these white fillings only replace the cavity whereas a metal filling needs a certain size or thickness to be strong.
Therefore, a dentist who places these metal fillings may have to drill out GOOD solid tooth. Also, the resin wears like natural teeth!
The result is a beautiful smile!
In Need of a Filling? It’s Time to Be Pain-Free!
Replacing metal Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration
You can have your metal fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This process requires two appointments.
Your First Appointment:
- The old filling is removed along with any additional decay.
- An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.
- A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.
At the Lab: A resin or porcelain is carefully placed into the model of your teeth. It is then designed to look natural.
Your Second Appointment:
- The temporary onlay is removed.
- A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
- Bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
- The tooth is then polished.
Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!