Replace Amalgam Fillings for a More Beautiful Smile
Dental fillings replace damaged or decayed tissue to reinforce the tooth following treatment. Silver amalgam fillings (metal fillings with a dark gray color) have been the standard solution for many decades, but tooth-colored resin fillings have been gaining widespread use in recent years because of the many important advantages they provide. If you want to replace amalgam fillings with tooth-colored fillings for improved aesthetics, or if your amalgam filling failed, Dr. Randal Watson offers personalized treatment to fit your needs and preferences. With air abrasion technology at our Austin, TX, office, he can comfortably and non-invasively clean your tooth prior to the filling process. This eliminates the need for drills and other instruments.
Tooth-colored fillings do not just provide better aesthetics - they can actually do a better job of protecting your teeth in the long run. During a consultation, Dr. Watson can determine if replacing amalgam fillings with tooth-colored fillings is right for you.
Tooth-colored fillings provide better aesthetics, among other important benefits.
The Downsides of Amalgam Fillings
Silver amalgam fillings have several disadvantages when compared with tooth-colored composite fillings. One of the primary complaints is that the silver color of the fillings stands out from the surrounding teeth. It draws attention to the area and can make the restored tooth look decayed or unhealthy. These fillings can also cause surrounding dental tissue to become discolored, further degrading the aesthetics of your smile.
Metal fillings expand and contract with changes in temperature. Over time, this can cause small fractures in the tooth. The filling itself may also sustain damage and come loose as a result. A dislodged filling can foster decay.
Additionally, amalgam fillings contain trace amounts of mercury, a toxic element. Although the Food and Drug Administration has concluded that the amount of mercury in amalgam fillings does not pose a health hazard, many patients find that they experience greater peace of mind with metal-free fillings.
Reasons to Replace Amalgam Fillings
You may wish to replace your metal filling for a number of reasons:
- Your dentist determines that your filling has become degraded and requires replacement
- The filling is cracked or otherwise broken or damaged
- You want your fillings to blend into your smile rather than looking conspicuous and unattractive
Metal fillings expand and contract with changes in temperature. Over time, this can cause small fractures in the tooth.
Benefits of Tooth-colored Fillings
Dr. Watson can customize tooth-colored fillings to match the color of your surrounding teeth. No one will ever know you have a filling. Composite resin is non-toxic and requires less alteration of the tooth than amalgam fillings. Preservation of dental tissue is always the best approach, making composite fillings a better fit for your smile in every way.
Achieve a More Beautiful Smile Today
If you wish to replace amalgam fillings, contact us online to schedule an appointment or call one of our Austin offices directly. Dr. Watson can usually replace amalgam fillings in a single visit.
MessageOur Staff
Reach out today to set up an appointment with Dr. Randal Watson and his experienced team.
“We strive to make every experience a positive one.” Randal Watson, DDS, PA
VisitOur Office
Dr. Randal Watson provides dental services to patients from two locations in Austin, TX.
We have 2 locations in the greater Austin, TX area
