Amalgam Metal-Free Dental Restorations – Chaska, MN
Safe, Lifelike Tooth Repair
Amalgam is the material used in silver or metal fillings. One half is liquid mercury, and the other half is a mixture of tin, silver, and copper. The result is a silver or gray spot on the tooth-- a mark that stands out against the tooth enamel. While the material has been approved for use in dentistry by the FDA, many dental patients are concerned with the use of mercury in their dental restorations. This is why we offer amalgam metal-free dental restorations at our Chaska, MN dental office. Call us to learn what steps you can take to receive a safer, more blended solution.
Why Choose Chaska Dental Center for Amalgam Metal-Free Dental Restorations?
- Insurance-Friendly Dental Office
- Every Member of the Family Seen Under One Roof
- Serving the Chaska Community Since 1946
What Is Amalgam-Free Dentistry?
At Chaska Dental Center, we do not use amalgam in restorative and cosmetic dental care, and we haven’t since 1997. We practice amalgam-free dentistry, which means we use tooth-colored fillings instead. This method uses white composite resin to restore teeth following decay. The composite resin is a biocompatible material made up of a mixture of smooth plastic and glass particles.
What Are the Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Compared to the silver alternative, the benefits of tooth-colored fillings are significant. Some of these advantages include:
- Less removal of the tooth structure is required, allowing for more conservative dentistry
- Composite resin is highly customizable to match the shade of the rest of your teeth
- Tooth-colored fillings are less sensitive to changes in temperature
- You can eat and drink immediately
- Fillings placed with composite resin can last as long as amalgam fillings
Is It Necessary to Replace My Silver Fillings?
Many patients are interested in having their silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored fillings. If you are not experiencing problems with your amalgam fillings, it is not necessary to have them replaced. Replacement may, however, prevent future issues. It ultimately depends on how proactive you wish to be. Silver fillings can present problems later on, like making it difficult for your dentist to detect a leak or break of the filling -- even on X-rays. When this occurs, decay may advance without notice, eventually causing pain and requiring more significant treatment like a root canal or tooth extraction. Additionally, patients may choose to have their fillings replaced to prevent the risk of mercury exposure.
Filling replacement is a simple procedure that can potentially prevent more significant problems later on. The decision on whether or not to switch your non-problematic silver fillings for tooth-colored ones is ultimately up to you and your dentist.
