Upgrading Your Gold and Metal Fillings | Dentist, Wichita, Kansas

Metal amalgam and gold fillings are immediate giveaways that you have experienced tooth decay and require fillings. Over time, amalgam fillings will corrode and turn a black color. Many times, the appearance of these metal fillings can become worse than the cavity in which they fill, causing complete discoloration because of how the metal permeates your tooth. Adversely, ceramic fillings appear much more natural-looking and blend seamlessly with the rest of your natural tooth, remaining stain-resistant and outwardly more attractive over time. If you are concerned with opting for the most natural-looking option for your smile or are ready to upgrade your fillings, our team at Cambridge Family Dentistry recommends consulting with a dentist in Wichita to discuss all of your options before making any final decisions!

Because metal is a relatively poor insulator, metal fillings can cause tooth sensitivity when they come in contact with hot or cold liquids as a temperature change is transferred throughout the tooth. Additionally, metal fillings may cause added pressure sensitivity because they are not fully bonded to the tooth and are entirely free to move under pressure. When considering the material for your next filling, it is beneficial to remember that ceramic and composite fillings are much better insulators that can reduce the amount of pressure and temperature sensitivity due to a stiffer build and more resistant structure.

Did you know that metal fillings can contribute to the further corrosion of other metals in your mouth? This even applies to dental implants! While many implants are made of titanium and are rather resistant to corrosion, they may experience deterioration due to being in the presence of mercury, often found in metal amalgam fillings. If you have dental implants or other sources of metal in your mouth, it may be time to reconsider your current metal or gold fillings and opt for a more effective solution that keeps your smile healthy and looking beautiful for years to come!

Because metal fillings aren’t bonded to your teeth, they don’t provide added strength but remain limited to the strength of your natural tooth. Other materials such as ceramic or composite fillings are bonded to the teeth, which makes a tooth much stronger than your current enamel. If your tooth is significantly weakened, or you are dealing with much larger fillings, your dentist may recommend that you invest in a porcelain crown to create a much stronger, more durable tooth.

If you still aren’t sold on the idea of upgrading your metal amalgam or gold fillings to composite or ceramic materials, it is important to consider the toxicity associated with metal fillings. While both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Dental Association (ADA) maintain that metal amalgam fillings are safe for all patients, it has been revealed that individuals with multiple metal fillings experience a much higher blood mercury level than those with composite or ceramic fillings. Because mercury is categorized as one of the most toxic elements, it is important to consult with a dentist and determine which material is right for your next filling!