How Metal-Free Dentistry Has Affected Once-Traditional Treatments

25 years ago, dentists used metal, silver, and gold to fill a cavity or crown a patient's tooth. Today, the more effective resin fillings have prevailed over the once-traditional metal mainstays of general dental services. Here's why metal-free dentistry is so popular and recommended.

Disadvantages of Metal Dentistry 

Silver amalgam contains mercury and tends to contract and expand when exposed to heat and cold. Over time, these changes can weaken or crack the tooth structure, causing bacterial decay, infection, fractures, and chips while contributing to gum disease. When a filling breaks, a tooth is no longer sealed, and a cavity can form beneath it. Amalgams can also corrode and leak, staining the teeth and gums.

Benefits of Metal-Free Dentistry

Composite fillings are a cosmetically pleasing and safer choice for treating tooth decay. They are stronger than metal, last longer, and will remain in place for many years without discomfort. They contain no mercury, do not discolor, stabilize the tooth, reduce tooth sensitivity, and are an attractive option for minor tooth decay.

Brighter, More Natural Teeth and Smile

Metal-free fillings are designed to match the color of the patient's teeth, creating more natural-looking results. If a tooth is broken or discolored, bonding a porcelain veneer or crown to it will produce a brighter, more natural appearance. The shade of the veneer can be matched to teeth that have undergone a whitening procedure.

The Structure of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are made up of glass, quartz, and resin. They restore teeth as close to the tooth's original tensile strength as is technically possible.

An Emphasis on Safer Teeth

With their adhesive that helps maintain the structure of teeth, metal-free fillings can reduce the amount of drilling needed when repairing cavities. Also, the American Dental Association has cited journals and examples that underscore the safety of metal-free dentistry.

The Potential of Lower Costs

The price of metal-free fillings, veneers, and crowns in traditional dental services is typically less than metal due to cheaper materials needed and the shortened time required to treat the teeth appropriately.

Dr. Robert Hanson and his associates at Hanson Dentistry are specialists in metal-free dentistry. If you live in the Independence area and are seeking an alternative to metal fillings or crowns, please call us at 816-373-5605 to learn about the dental services our team can provide you.