Published on August 28, 2021, Updated on July 27, 2022
At Oral Health Center, We don’t use mercury in our practice. Many people, however, still have silver/mercury fillings in their teeth from previous years. These fillings are unsightly, and we know that, by design, silver/mercury fillings inevitably weaken tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (onlays) are tooth-colored fillings that are not only attractive (or invisible), but also strengthen weakened teeth. Thanks to modern bonding technology, these restorations are both aesthetically beautiful and extremely durable.
Silver fillings have the following disadvantages:
Silver fillings have a number of disadvantages. The silver filling’s edges can wear down, weaken, or break. As a result, the tooth is no longer protected, allowing cavities to resurface. A silver filling’s metal expands, compresses, and splits as it ages.
Silver fillings have a mercury content of 50%. They can cause stains on your teeth and gums by corroding, leaking, and corroding.
Silver fillings, fortunately, can be securely replaced with Tooth-Colored Restorations.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Restorative Materials
Tooth-colored restorations have numerous advantages. Resin onlays are fused to the teeth, giving them a tight, superior fit. When a large portion of the tooth structure has been lost, such restorations can be used. The tooth is still healthy and strong.
Fluoride is present in the resin used in tooth-colored restorations, which can help prevent decay. The resin looks and feels just like natural teeth, plus it doesn’t need to be placed along the gum line, which is better for your gums!
The end effect is a stunning smile!
Using a tooth-colored restoration to replace silver fillings
Silver fillings can be replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This procedure necessitates two visits.
Your First Visit:
- The old filling, as well as any additional deterioration, is removed.
- Your teeth are taken as an impression. The lab creates a replica of your teeth and sends it to you.
- On the tooth, a temporary onlay is inserted.
A resin is carefully inserted into the model of your teeth in the lab. It is then styled to appear natural.
Your Second Consultation:
- The temporary onlay is no longer needed.
- To prepare your teeth for the new onlay, a conditioning gel is applied.
- A high-intensity light attaches the resin to the tooth after bonding cement is applied to the tooth.
- After that, the tooth is polished.
Your teeth will have a more natural appearance and feel, will be stronger, and the tooth will be safeguarded!