Metal-free fillings

Dental fillings are primarily used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay. Earlier, dental fillings were being made from metals, such as gold, silver, or mercury-based amalgam. But, in recent years, we have limited, if not completely stopped, the use of metal fillings due to the various disadvantages it causes. Instead, they have been replaced by tooth-colored fillings made from either dental-grade ceramic or composite resin.

What are the drawbacks of amalgam fillings?

• Since amalgam fillings are made from metal, their rate of expansion or contraction is different from that of the tissues of the teeth. Whenever you consume foods that are too hot or cold, they could expand or contract unevenly, leading to cracks and other forms of damage to the teeth.
• Amalgam fillings pose a significant risk of toxic contamination. When the mercury from the fillings reaches the dental pulp, it can lead to contamination and infections.
• Amalgam fillings leave a nasty appearance on the aesthetics of a person’s smile, as they appear as dark patches on the enamel.
• Amalgam fillings are difficult to remove when you wish to get them replaced by tooth-colored counterparts.

How are fillings placed?

The dentist would carry out a thorough diagnosis of the tooth that requires the filling and prepare it for restoration. It will be cleaned and disinfected using ultrasonic scaling, the debris will be removed, and microbes will be washed away using a jet of water. The filling material will be prepared by matching it with the color and texture of the tooth. The cleaned surface of the cavity will be etched using an etching liquid, which makes the surface rough and allows the filling to adhere to it firmly.

The dentist will place the filling in the cavity and shape it according to the contour of the tooth. It will be solidified using a curing light, after which a bite test will be taken. In case the natural bite is being altered by the filling, we will trim it as required and give you perfectly shaped fillings. They would keep the oral bacteria from entering the cavity and causing reinfection, thanks to the excellent sealing properties they offer.

Please reach out to us to schedule a consultation with our dentist, and we’ll guide you further. Please call us at (703) 595-4405 or reach us through online consultation.