Non-Metal Fillings
Non-metal fillings or composite fillings, as they are called, can be used to fill cavities or chips in the front or back teeth. Composite fillings are the most popular filling material. At our Prescott, Arizona office, many of our patients choose metal-free fillings. Composite fillings have almost completely replaced the use of metal fillings. Many people have opted to have their old metal fillings removed and replaced with nonmetal composite fillings.
There are many reasons why a person may choose to have metal fillings removed and replaced with composite material. Some of the reasons include:
- Leaking amalgam fillings: Unfortunately overtime metal fillings can begin to separate from the tooth enamel leaving an opening for bacteria, debris, food, and saliva to seep inside causing the tooth to decay. Replacing the metal filling with a composite filling will help avoid any leakage.
- Cosmetic reasons: As mentioned above composite fillings are more natural looking than metal fillings and are virtually unnoticeable when a person opens their mouth. Replacing old metal fillings with new white composite fillings can help a person’s teeth look white and filling free.
- To avoid tooth fracturing: When an amalgam filling is placed a lot of tooth structure has to be removed to keep the filling in place. Removing a lot of tooth structure makes the tooth weak and more prone to fracture in the future. White composite fillings add more stability to a tooth because they are bonded to the tooth, requiring less tooth structure to be removed.
- Allergic reactions: Sometimes a person can develop an allergic reaction to the metals in amalgam fillings. Removing the metal filling and replacing it with a composite filling can help alleviate any metal allergy. Composite fillings are completely metal-free and are perfect for patients who may have metal sensitivity.
- Alleviate cold and hot sensitivity: When a person has metal fillings they may experience sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods or beverages. White composite fillings are less conductive of heat and cold and cause less sensitivity.
