Dental fillings are one of the oldest known methods of dental restoration. Dentists have been placing dental fillings for years as a way to stop damage and restore an unhealthy tooth. However, as modern dentistry has begun to take over, certain types of dental fillings are beginning to die out.
Silver dental fillings were originally made of metal materials that contained mercury, which has been proven to be somewhat harmful to the mouth. Aside from the chemical makeup, fillings that are silver in color can also be non-discreet. Because of these things, dentists are beginning to recommend that silver fillings be removed and replaced.
If you have silver dental fillings then you may want to read on to find out more. We go over three signs that may indicate a need for replacement. Thankfully, modern dentistry has allowed for the creation of composite dental fillings that are durable, natural-looking and reliable.
Silver fillings are made of amalgam, which can expand and contract when extreme temperatures are put in contact. When a person consumes something too hot or too cold, the dental filling is at risk of changing. Over time, constant expansion or contraction of the filling can result in a sensitive tooth.
It is best to pay close attention to a silver filling after a few years. The area of the tooth surrounding the silver filling may become sensitive, weak or even prone to cracking, which could all result in a need for a complete tooth replacement.
Because amalgam fillings don’t have a very long lifespan, they are more prone to weakening the tooth. Over time, the filling will become weakened which will result in a need for replacement. Keep an eye out for small cracks or chips around or even on the filling. While these may seem minor, they could actually cause severe problems. It is best to have the silver fillings replaced with composite ones if cracks or chips are present. Alternatively, have a dentist regularly examine the silver fillings to determine if there are unnoticeable cracks or chips.
Another indicator that silver fillings should be replaced is if the patient finds them to be distracting. Long ago, silver fillings were the only option, but today, natural-colored ones are available and quite popular for obvious reasons.
Having a natural-colored tooth filled with silver materials isn’t necessarily pleasing to the eye, but replacing them with composite fillings or even a dental crown can help improve one’s aesthetic right away.
Are you thinking about replacing your silver fillings with composite ones? Our team can help you! Silver dental fillings are traditional, but as modern dentistry continues to take over, there are now better options for you. Give us a call or stop by our office today so that we can help get you started.
Request an appointment here: https://www.ddsbaik.com or call Dennis Baik, DDS at (408) 676-5321 for an appointment in our San Jose office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in San Jose, CA.
Looking to understand the difference between a dental inlay and a regular filling? Dental inlays are one of many restoration options that general dentists offer patients who are suffering from a damaged tooth. Another common option is a dental filling, which has varying characteristics but offers a similar outcome.Long ago, there were very limited options…
A dental filling is used to restore and renew teeth that are in bad shape. Oftentimes, a general dentist will recommend a dental filling for patients who have a minor cavity, but the procedure can also be used to treat things like chips or cracks.Regardless of what the dental filling is being used to treat,…
To some people, dental fillings can be considered costly and uncomfortable. Because filling a cavity requires drilling the decayed tooth, people are often curious about what other ways a cavity can be treated.Traditionally, a cavity is treated by filling the tooth with a medically safe material to stop the decay from furthering. However, as dental technology…
As a filling dentist in San Jose, we can provide you with tooth-colored dental fillings that blend in or the more traditional silver fillings. However, we would prefer to help you to stay in good oral health. We provide preventative dental care for families throughout the area and recommend that you have your teeth cleaned…
A mouth guard is a protective covering worn over teeth to protect them while playing sports or grinding them at night. In the past, the use of mouth guards was mostly restricted to athletes. These days, more parents are following their dentists' advice and getting mouth guards for their kids who participate in physical sports.Every…
If you find yourself scared of visiting the dentist or undergoing dental procedures, you might benefit from sedation dentistry. Most people dealing with dental anxiety would rather endure pain from dental issues instead of meet with the dentist. Sedation dentistry can help you deal with your dental fears and relax in the dentist's chair. The…