If you need a new dental filling or would like to replace your old metal filling, we can help! Bucks County Smiles provides tooth-colored fillings and tooth filling services with our over 75 combined years of experience!
Amalgams (or silver fillings) are a thing of the past, and there’s a reason for that. Beyond the concerns over possible toxicity from mercury in silver amalgam, metal fillings also don’t look visually pleasing. Fortunately, we have a modern alternative.
Today’s composite filling restorations are strong, more functional, and certainly more aesthetically appealing! That is why, at Bucks County Smiles, we do not use silver amalgam fillings. Simply put, modern composite fillings are much safer. They are non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and blend in with your natural teeth.
The issue with metal fillings is that silver amalgam contains mercury in addition to silver, tin, zinc, and copper. While mercury is mostly inert and relatively safe in the form of an amalgam, it can emit mercury vapor. Mercury on its own is highly toxic.
Old metal amalgam fillings can be replaced as they break down or decay or can simply be replaced in advance to prevent these inevitable occurrences. For silver amalgams that contain mercury, special care needs to be taken to ensure that loose mercury does not leech into the mouth as the filling is removed.
At Bucks County Smiles, our expert dentists take special precautions when removing old silver amalgam fillings to ensure that our patients are kept safe from any possible mercury toxicity. While the potential for harm from these fillings is still being debated, many patients report overall improvement to their health after having these old-style fillings removed.
The FDA recently updated their guidelines regarding silver fillings, and they do not recommend these fillings for people with the following conditions (as listed on the FDA website):
In particular, people with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s should avoid silver amalgam fillings. If you fall into any of these categories or are planning on becoming pregnant any time soon, don’t wait to get your fillings removed. Contact us right away at (267) 365-3004 to schedule a consultation.
Tooth-colored composite fillings are made of a mixture of resin and a submicron glass. While plastic, our composite fillings are BPA-free and do not leech any toxic material into your mouth.
Because composite fillings are made with resin, we are able to match the color exactly to your natural teeth. The composite material can be molded to blend in with your tooth. When we are done, you won’t be able to tell where your tooth ends and the filling begins! Composite fillings will last for years and function just like your real teeth.
If you think you have a cavity or would like to get your old silver amalgam fillings replaced, Bucks County Smiles can help. Ask about this and other cosmetic dentistry procedures, including dental implants, dentures, and porcelain veneers. Schedule your free new patient consultation to begin the journey to a brighter, healthier smile.
Give us a call at (267) 365-3004!
