Fillings

Are tooth colored fillings better than silver fillings?

Tooth colored fillings (also known as resin or composite fillings) and silver (amalgam) fillings are both excellent materials with different pros and cons. The fillings we do at The Hudson Yards Dental Studio @ Luxe Rx are tooth colored fillings. Most patients prefer these due to better esthetics. Resin fillings are also great because they are more conservative than silver fillings so we do not need to drill as much since we chemically bond them into place.

Should I get my silver fillings replaced?

Patients often come to our office and are concerned about their silver fillings leaking mercury into their mouths. However, please put your mind at ease! The amount of mercury in amalgam fillings is incredibly small, and is actually quite stable in the hardened phase in your mouth. While the amount is extremely low and incredibly unlikely to cause any harm to your health, we typically only recommend replacing silver fillings when there is an actual problem with the tooth. Replacing them for the sake of replacing is unnecessary.

Many people share the misconception that fillings will last forever. Regardless of how well a restoration is designed, this is rarely the case. The length of time a restoration lasts varies from person to person. It can be related to the types of foods you eat, your personal oral hygiene, frequency of professional dental cleanings, and even your overall health.

It’s important to remember that, just like your natural teeth, dental restorations are subject to wear and tear and can gradually break down over time. A restoration may become loose or broken down, allowing decay to enter the area around the restoration and creating problems like cavities or periodontal disease.

Getting a Durable Restoration

At The Hudson Yards Dental Studio @ Luxe Rx, when we create your durable restoration, we’ll also take the time to explain how you can protect and keep it functional for as long as possible. Even though you can’t expect your fillings, bridges, and crowns to last forever, you play a huge part in making them last as long as possible. Maintaining great oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly will keep your restorations in great condition for as long as possible.

Please call our dental office if you have questions or would like more information about our durable restorations.

No one wants a cavity, but if you’ve got one then we can help. Our fillings are colored to match the shade of your teeth and use safe bpa-free materials. Plus, they can be done same day.