Tooth Fillings
We are a mercury-free practice. However, many people still have silver/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/mercury amalgam fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Ceramic inlays and onlays create restorations 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. Composite (tooth colored) restorations can be places when the size of the restoration is relatively small and has adequate tooth structure to help support it.
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 crack the surrounding tooth structure.
Silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak and cause stains on your teeth and gums.