TREATMENTS

Tooth 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.

Advantages of Silver fillings:

Silver fillings still have a place in dentistry. Many insurances pay a higher percentage of the cost of silver restorations. And silver can be safely used in some situations where tooth colored fillings are inappropriate. Modern silver fillings contain prescious metals in the mix that can make these fillings second only to gold in strength for direct placement repairs. Silver fillings when mixed contain scavenger technology that assures no uncombined mercury is present. 

We will discuss all your options for materials that can be used for repairs in your mouth.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

Direct placement composite resin is the most common and most affordable tooth colored restoration. The color and shape matches your natural tooth and you can function immediately as the material is placed then shaped then hardened with a special light.
 
There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin 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 many resins used in tooth-colored restorations contain fluoride this 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!

Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration

You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This process requires 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 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!