If you have an old silver filling, Dr. Michael Wilhite can replace it with a tooth-colored restoration to give you a healthier and more beautiful smile. Tooth-colored, or composite, dental fillings are designed to blend in with the color of your teeth to provide a more natural-looking result as well as a result that promotes better long-term oral health. Contact Davidson Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today at 704-987-2277 to learn more about replacing mercury dental fillings in Davidson, North Carolina, and schedule your appointment with our skilled dentist.
replacing fillings

Why Remove Amalgam Fillings?

Amalgam fillings, sometimes called silver fillings, have been used in dentistry for many years to restore teeth affected by decay. Dental amalgam is made from a blend of metals, which may include silver, mercury, tin, copper and other trace elements. While these restorations have been common for decades, many patients today are interested in replacing older amalgam fillings with more modern, mercury-free materials that offer both functional and aesthetic benefits.

At our office, we are committed to providing mercury-free dentistry and do not use materials that contain mercury. If you have older amalgam fillings, our dentist and team can evaluate their condition and discuss whether removal and replacement may be appropriate for your smile. In some cases, patients choose this treatment because their fillings are worn, leaking, cracked or no longer providing the support the tooth needs. Others prefer a restoration that blends in more naturally with their teeth.

Why Replace Amalgam Fillings?

Over time, older fillings can begin to wear down or place stress on the tooth. When that happens, the tooth may become more vulnerable to damage and may need a new restoration to protect its health and function. Replacing outdated fillings can also improve the appearance of your smile.

Many patients choose to replace amalgam fillings because:

  • They want a mercury-free restoration
  • Their existing filling is old, damaged or failing
  • The tooth has developed cracks or weakening around the filling
  • They prefer a more natural-looking, tooth-colored material
  • They want a restoration that bonds more closely to the tooth structure

Composite fillings are often used as a replacement for amalgam. Composite material is tooth colored, allowing it to blend in with your natural smile more seamlessly than a silver filling. In addition, composite restorations are designed to bond to the tooth, which can help support the remaining structure.

Safe, Comfortable Treatment

Our dentist and team have received training in safe amalgam removal techniques and take care to make the process as comfortable and efficient as possible. Before beginning treatment, we will examine your teeth, review your concerns and determine whether replacing one or more fillings is recommended. In many cases, this treatment can be completed in a single visit.

Your comfort and health are important to us throughout every step of the process. We will explain what to expect, answer your questions and make sure your treatment plan is tailored to your needs.

A Mercury-Free, Natural-Looking Smile

Replacing amalgam fillings can be a meaningful step toward a more updated, aesthetically pleasing and mercury-free smile. Whether you are concerned about the condition of an older filling or simply want to explore your options, our team is here to help.

For more information about amalgam filling removal and replacement in Davidson, NC, or to schedule your consultation with our dentist, please call or visit our office today. We are always happy to answer your questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing Mercury Fillings

What does replacing mercury dental fillings involve?

Replacing mercury dental fillings involves removing older metal restorations and placing new material in their place when appropriate. Our dentist may recommend replacement if a filling is worn, damaged, leaking, or no longer supporting the tooth properly.

Why would mercury fillings need to be replaced?

Mercury fillings may need to be replaced if they become cracked, loose, or worn over time. Our dentist will evaluate the condition of your existing fillings and recommend replacement only when it is in the best interest of your oral health.

What materials can replace mercury fillings?

Tooth-colored composite materials are commonly used to replace older mercury fillings. Our dentist may recommend these restorations because they blend more naturally with your teeth while restoring strength and helping protect the tooth from future damage.

What are the benefits of replacing old metal fillings?

Replacing old metal fillings may improve the appearance of your smile and restore support to teeth with worn or failing restorations. Our dentist can determine whether replacement will help protect your tooth and improve long-term function.