Tooth-Colored Restorations – A Better Way

By Eugene M. Sibick, DDS

Published on July 21, 2006

Do you have unnaturally colored, metallic fillings? Are you self-conscious when you smile or laugh? Have you experienced embarrassment as a result? Imagine being able to finally laugh out loud, or smile as wide as you would like, without anyone seeing your fillings. You can experience this great feeling with strong, beautiful, natural-colored restorations.

Most people want their teeth to look natural, and consequently many dentists do not use amalgam (silvered-colored) fillings. These unnaturally colored fillings have a darkening effect on the teeth, making them unappealing to look at. This is especially true when they are visible in the corners of your smile. But this isn't the only negative aspect of amalgam.

Since the amalgam contains mercury, it has an increased ability to expand and contract in reaction to hot and cold food or drinks. In fact, mercury is used in thermometers for this very reason. This constant expansion and contraction of mercury can lead to fracturing of your teeth. Some of these fractures may cause pain, but most do not; those that do not may go undetected for years, allowing bacteria to infiltrate deep into the tooth. When these bacteria find the pulp (nerve and blood supply), a root canal will be needed, along with a crown.

More often than not, teeth filled with large amounts of amalgam are eventually weakened to the point that they need crowns. As if this weren't bad enough, some (controversial) studies have concluded that amalgam fillings release mercury, which is then absorbed into the body's tissue. As a result of these controversies, alternative materials have come onto the dental scene that surpass amalgam not only in terms of looks, but also in function.

For more information on the author, please visit www.amclaredental.com