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Whether you need a dental filling done or replaced, Icy Dental has you covered. Icy Dental was built with our patients in mind. We combine cutting-edge dental technology with a team that truly cares about you, a relaxing environment, and amenities that delight. We are committed to providing you with oral health care to give your teeth optimal form and function over a lifetime. Enjoy a personalized appointment with our team in East Lansing. We welcome new patients of all ages. Dr. Boyd Yu is committed to helping you keep your teeth in optimal form and function over a lifetime. Call today or book an appointment online.
Do you use amalgam?
We are an amalgam and mercury-free practice. Approximately 50% of a dental amalgam filling is mercury by weight. While these silver/mercury fillings last for a long time and many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from many years ago, you should consider having them replaced.
Why should I change out my amalgam/silver Fillings?
Large amalgam restorations can weaken tooth structure over time, leading to cracks and fractures in the teeth they were placed in. This is especially the case for teeth in the back, where most of the forces of chewing are located. Furthermore, these fillings are readily visible in the smile and not pleasing to the eye.
What are the drawbacks of amalgam/silver Fillings?
Silver fillings have many drawbacks. More tooth structure is required to be removed to place a silver filling. Some patients may have allergies or sensitivities to amalgam. The edges of silver fillings can wear down and break over time. This results in food and bacteria being trapped in the area and allows cavities to start around the silver filling again. Another drawback is that the filling can corrode, leaving permanent stains in the tooth structure next to where the amalgam filling is placed.
Are amalgam/silver Fillings safe?
The American Dental Association maintains that amalgam fillings, which contain mercury, are safe. The weight of the existing evidence does not show that exposure to mercury from dental amalgam leads to adverse health effects. Dental amalgams have been used for over 150 years and have the advantage of being cheaper and still being durable. In fact, the average lifespan of amalgams is 8 to 10 years, with many lasting 20 years or more. Dental colored fillings are quickly bridging this gap, with new materials lasting much longer than their predecessors. Tooth colored porcelain crowns and porcelain onlays/inlays are also a superior option that can be even stronger than silver fillings.
What can I replace my amalgam/silver Filling with?
Depending on the size of the amalgam filling placed, there are several options for replacing them. The more cusps or tooth structure that are compromised by the silver filling and the more staining there is in the tooth structure, the more likely it is that the tooth needs a tooth-colored porcelain crown or inlay/onlay. Some amalgam fillings are small enough that a tooth colored filling or a resin onlay can be bonded to the tooth to create a tight, superior, and seamless fit to natural tooth structure. Tooth colored resin fillings can be placed in one visit to the dental office. The amalgam is carefully removed along with any additional decay or unsightly tooth staining. The area is then cleaned and a resin filling is then bonded to the tooth and polished. The result is a seamless filling placed on a tooth that once had a large silver filling.
What is involved if I need a crown or onlay?
Tooth colored porcelain crowns and porcelain onlays/inlays are an option when there is a large amalgam to be replaced. This process requires two appointments. In the first visit, the old filling is removed along with any additional decay or staining. An impression is made and a model of your teeth will be sent to the lab. A temporary is then placed on the tooth. In the second appointment, the temporary is removed and the tooth is cleaned. Bonding cement is then placed on the tooth along with the restoration. The tooth is then polished.
Both of these options will help to restore the natural look and feel of your teeth while increasing the life and strength of your teeth to make sure they are protected.