Why Should You Replace Metal Fillings?

If you have older metal fillings in your teeth that are still in good condition, you may not be thinking much about replacing them. After all, many patients feel that if something isn’t broken, why bother fixing it? But believe it or not, there are some excellent health and cosmetic reasons to do just that. Here are a few compelling reasons it could be time to upgrade those old silver restorations to tooth-colored fillings sooner than later.

The Dangers of Metal Fillings

Metal fillings (also known as silver fillings) are made of a mixture of metals, often including silver, copper, and even mercury. Thankfully, while one or two of these restorations should not cause any problems, recent studies have shown that patients with eight or more metal fillings could have higher levels of mercury in their bloodstream. Thus, it is recommended that patients that still have many of these fillings get them replaced with safer, tooth-colored fillings, even if they are still in good condition.

The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings are made of a composite resin material that blends resin (a plastic) and powdered glass filler. These not only feel like natural tooth materials, but they also blend in seamlessly with your teeth, creating a durable, lifelike restoration that is safer and more discreet than metal fillings.

Tooth-colored fillings can last up to ten years with proper care and use, and do not contain metal or mercury, making them safe for patients with metal allergies. Plus, they can be completely customized to match the exact shade of your teeth, so nobody will even know you have them unless you tell them! Your new restorations will not only look better, but they will also be much safer, too.

Remember, having a few metal fillings should not pose a significant risk to your health, no matter how old they are. However, if they are nearing the end of their lifespan or if you have more than eight in any condition, speak to your dentist today about replacing them with durable, lifelike tooth-colored fillings today!

About Our Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, we are proud to welcome patients to one of our 13 convenient DFW locations. Whether you need a cleaning and exam, a cosmetic procedure, or its time to replace your old metal fillings with beautiful, durable tooth-colored fillings, our skilled and caring team of dentists are ready to help!

To schedule an appointment, please visit our website for a location near you, or call us today at 888-676-2327.