Fillings

Fillings

Metal-Free Dentistry – Composite Fillings and Porcelain Inlays/Onlays

If you’re like most people, you probably have cavities that have been filled with metal or a silver-mercury amalgam. In the past have you thought that such fillings are unattractive in your smile? Well now you can do something about it by getting metal-free composite or porcelain fillings.

For years, the telltale sign that someone was plagued with cavities was the presence of shiny silver or gold-coloured fillings in their teeth. Of course, the “silver” filling was in truth an amalgam of mercury and other metals. Recently, there has been considerable concern about the emission of gaseous mercury from these old fillings. This has led to the supplanting of “silver” and “gold” fillings by metal-free fillings, made of porcelain or composite resin mixtures. These new fillings have gained popularity because they are tooth-coloured and therefore blend better with the surrounding teeth.

Silver mercury fillings react to temperature changes, expanding and contracting within your delicate tooth. This movement can weaken the tooth, causing it to break. It can also create a space between the tooth surface and filling that allows bacteria to enter causing decay.

Fortunately, there are metal-free fillings - composite resins and porcelain inlays and onlays - that are stronger and safer for your teeth. Best of all, they’re virtually invisible, keeping your smile looking natural and attractive.

For small cavities, we use a non-metal composite filling for restoration. White in colour and enduring in strength, composite fillings offer a lasting, attractive alternative to metal. Ask your dentist at Lisburn Dental Clinic and he will happily explain the procedure, alternative materials available and even show you pictures / 3D model of how your teeth would look if they had metal free composite fillings !!