Tooth Fillings Los Angeles

Why are White Tooth Fillings better than metal?

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, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Direct composite fillings, Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (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 Silver fillings:

Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and allows cavities to form in the tooth once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split.

Silver fillings can leak (allowing bacterial infiltration) and cause unsightly discoloration and stains on your teeth and gums.

Fortunately, silver fillings that need to be removed can safely be replaced with Tooth-Colored Restorations.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Direct composite fillings require that only a minimal amount of tooth structure be removed, which leaves your tooth stronger and looking more natural. The physical properties of today’s composites are very similar to those of your own teeth, resulting in natural wear patterns and increased fracture-resistance.

Resin inlays and 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.

Since some of the resins used in tooth-colored restorations contain fluoride, such treatments can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums.

The result is a beautiful smile!