Composite Tooth Fillings in Calgary
At Nuera Dental Center, Dr. Chin and his team have been a mercury-free practice for over 18 years. However, many people still have silver or mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver or mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure.
Porcelain inlays and tooth-coloured restorations (onlays) create composite tooth fillings for our Calgary patients 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. Contact us today!
Disadvantages of Silver Fillings
Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak, or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and lets cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split.
Silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak, and cause stains on your teeth and gums.
Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with tooth-coloured restorations.
Advantages of Tooth-Coloured Restorations
There are many advantages to tooth-coloured 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 the resin used in tooth-coloured 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-Coloured Restoration
You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-coloured restorations (onlays). This process requires two appointments.
Your First Appointment:
- The old filling is removed along with any additional decay.
- An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.
- 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:
- The temporary onlay is removed.
- A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
- Bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high-intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
- The tooth is then polished.
Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel; they are stronger and the tooth is protected!
Benefits of Tooth Fillings
Tooth decay and tooth fractures expose the interior of the tooth to bacteria because when sugar or starch dissolves in healthy tooth structure, infection is caused within the tissues. Restoring the damaged tooth structure with composite tooth filling has various benefits including:
- Reduces damage caused by dental cavities or dental decay
- Protects the remaining tooth structure from further damage
- Re-establishes proper tooth functioning
- Prevents damage caused to the nerve of the tooth
- Prevents the loss of the tooth
- Facilitates you to clean your teeth easily
- Reduces the count of bacteria in your mouth
- Helps you achieve and maintain fresh breath
For composite tooth fillings, schedule an appointment with us.
Our Testimonials
Best Dental Experience
“One of the best dental experiences I've ever had! Dr. Chin is very professional, and he takes the time to help you understand your teeth, going through x-rays thoroughly and explaining his thoughts along the way. The hygiene staff is delightful and ensures you are comfortable throughout the cleaning.
Bonus - the dental chairs have a built-in massage system so you even get a little rub when you're there.”
- Brooke
