Tooth Fillings

Most of the fillings we place now are tooth colored.  However, many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. Silver fillings can have an amzing life span and work well for many years.  In some cases, patients object to the metal look of these fillings.  In some cases the metal expands causing cracking or craze lines in the tooth enamel surface.  Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (onlays) create fillings that are unnoticeable and also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are esthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies now available.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Composite resin filling are bonded to the teeth creating a tight fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations may be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger. The resin wears like natural teeth and sometime does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums!

The result is a healthy beautiful smile!

Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration

You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This process may require two appointments.

Your First Appointment:

  1. The old filling is removed along with any additional decay.
  2. An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.
  3. A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.

At the Lab: A resin or porcelain restoration is carefully placed into the model of your teeth. It is then designed to look natural.

Your Second Appointment:

  1. The temporary onlay is removed.
  2. A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
  3. Bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
  4. The tooth is then polished.

Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!