For years, the debate between amalgam (or silver) and composite resin has continued. Various amounts of research has proven that amalgam fillings pose a danger to patients due to the high levels of mercury within the material. For this reason, many dentists started completing amalgam-free dental work; others choose to offer both services to provide patients with more options.
At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we practice holistic dental procedures, therefore, toxin-free dentistry dominates our office. To explain the benefits of amalgam-free dentistry, Dr. Brad Greenfield, your Lake Orion, MI dentist offers the following information.
Little Known Facts about Composite Resin
Quartz-resin made. One of the key materials for composite resin fillings is actually quartz, which is sensitive to light. Additionally, due to the color, white fillings work flawlessly on front teeth due to their color-matching ability. Plus, with their glass-plastic mixture, amalgam-free fillings can withstand force just as well as silver fillings can.
Easy to place. Filling a cavity with composite resin is much easier to complete because of its malleable properties. Furthermore, when patients wish to correct minor dental imperfections, dentists use resin for a process called, bonding. This procedure can repair minor chips and gaps for a more uniform smile.
Strengthens smiles. Silver fillings tend to weaken a tooth’s structure—a problem that amalgam-free fillings don’t cause. Moreover, composite resin doesn’t contain harmful substances like mercury, which can leak and become ingested by the patient.
Less sensitivity. Due to the metal within a silver filling, the restoration has been known to cause hot and cold sensitivities. By choosing to offer composite material instead, your Lake Orion, MI dentist eliminates the possibility of increased sensitivity post-filling.
Return to normal activities sooner. Since white fillings harden immediately after placement, patients can eat, drink, and return to normal activities whenever they choose.
Amalgam-Free Dentistry is Available at Lake Orion Family Dentistry
More and more dentists have started to switch to a more natural type of dentistry by providing amalgam-free procedures. At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we pride ourselves in providing the most effective and convenient dentistry. To schedule an appointment with your Lake Orion, MI dentist, call (248) 693-6213. Also, visit our website for services, patient forms, and smile gallery. We happily serve patients in Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, Lake Orion, and neighboring communities.