Mercury-Free Fillings

Fillings do a wonderful job for dental cavities, to prevent the spread of tooth decay, and to fix cracks and fractures in teeth. For many years, the majority of fillings were amalgam and contained mercury.

Serenity Smiles Dental is pleased to offer our patients a selection of mercury-free materials, which include composite resin, gold, glass and porcelain, to name but a few. Most of our patients are asking for composite mercury free fillings in Epping because they are hardly noticeable and blend in with the colour and appearance of your natural teeth.

Our dentists will also assist you with the removal of amalgam fillings.

Mercury-Free Fillings

Fillings do a wonderful job for dental cavities, to prevent the spread of tooth decay, and to fix cracks and fractures in teeth. For many years, the majority of fillings were amalgam and contained mercury.

Serenity Smiles Dental is pleased to offer our patients a selection of mercury-free materials, which include composite resin, gold, glass and porcelain, to name but a few. Most of our patients are asking for composite mercury free fillings in Epping because they are hardly noticeable and blend in with the colour and appearance of your natural teeth.

Our dentists will also assist you with the removal of amalgam fillings.

What Can You Expect During A Filling?

Most filling procedures are completed under local anaesthetic. If your dentist sees a cavity he or she will first need to get rid of the infected part of your tooth. Your dentist will then test it to ensure that all the decay has been removed, and then clean the cavity so it is ready to be filled.

In the event that the cavity is close to the root of your tooth, your dentist will place a liner to protect your nerve. These are usually crafted from glass ionomer.

What Are The Alternatives To Mercury-Free Fillings?

Today we know that mercury fillings are harmful, and you have plenty of other options to fill holes, cracks and fractures in your teeth.

Gold fillings
Gold fillings are long-lasting and strong. They can withstand the pressure while chewing and may last up to 15 years. On the downside, gold fillings can be more expensive than other materials.

Ceramic fillings
Usually made from porcelain, ceramic fillings are less likely to stain than composite resin but they are more expensive, and can cost as much as gold fillings.

Composite resin fillings
Composite resin fillings are very popular because they can match the colour of your natural teeth very closely. This makes resin ideal to use in highly visible areas (like the front teeth). Resin also bonds to the surface of the tooth chemically, giving your restored tooth some extra support. Composite fillings have a shorter lifespan and will wear out sooner than metal filings.

Glass ionomer
Glass ionomer fillings are crafted from a combination of glass and acrylic, and are used most often for fillings positioned below the gum line. They also release fluoride, which can protect you against the development of further decay.

How Do You Know What Type Of Material To Choose For Your Fillings?

There are a number of different factors that may influence your choice of material for dental fillings. The position of the filling, as well as how much area needs to be filled, the cost of the material and your dental insurance cover will all play a part in deciding which material will work best for you. Your dentist will give you advice on which substances will work best for your circumstances.

Have a toothache? Need to have your amalgam fillings assessed? Contact our practice today to find a convenient appointment: (02)9868 1404