Replacing Silver Fillings With Tooth-Colored Ones

If you have older silver fillings, you may have wondered about swapping them for tooth-colored ones. Many people in North Phoenix choose to update their smile this way, both for appearance and function. Here is what replacing silver fillings involves and when it actually makes sense.

Why people make the switch

Silver, or amalgam, fillings are durable, but they have a metallic look that stands out, especially when you laugh or talk. Over the years, they can also expand and contract with temperature, which may contribute to cracks in the tooth. Tooth-colored composite fillings blend in naturally and bond directly to the tooth for a seamless repair.

The benefits of tooth-colored fillings

• They match your natural tooth color and are virtually invisible
• They bond to the tooth, which can help support its structure
• They often require removing less healthy tooth than older fillings
• They are free of metal, which some patients prefer

Is replacement always necessary?

Not always. If a silver filling is intact and doing its job, there is often no urgent need to replace it. Replacement makes the most sense when a filling is cracked, worn, or leaking, when decay has formed around it, or when you simply want a more natural-looking smile. Your dentist can help you decide based on the condition of each filling.

What to expect

The process is straightforward and comfortable. Your dentist numbs the area, removes the old filling and any decay, and places a tooth-colored composite that is shaped, hardened, and polished to match your tooth. It is usually done in a single visit, and you can eat normally soon after.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to replace my silver fillings?

Not always. If a silver filling is intact and working, replacement is optional. It makes sense when a filling is cracked, worn, leaking, has decay around it, or for a more natural look.

Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as silver?

Modern composite fillings are strong and durable for most teeth, and they bond to the tooth. Your dentist can advise the best material for each tooth.

Does replacing a filling hurt?

No. The area is numbed first, so the procedure is comfortable, and it is usually completed in a single visit.

If your old fillings bother you, or you are due to have one checked, schedule a visit at Solterra Dentistry in North Phoenix and we will let you know whether replacement is worthwhile.