Mandeville Mercury-Free Dentistry | Mandeville Center for Dental Excellence

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mercury-free dentistry

The Trouble with Amalgam fillings

Amalgam fillings, often referred to as "silver fillings", contain silver, tin, copper, and about 50 percent mercury. The mercury is used to bind the metals together and to make the filling material easy to manipulate and place. However, mercury is toxic, and many people are concerned about it leaking from fillings and affecting their health. That’s why Dr. Charles Schof is a mercury-free dentist, providing white composite fillings for all patients.
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An Alternative: Composite Fillings

Composite fillings contain a mixture of glass or quartz with plastic resin. They are a new alternative, and because of this, we have limited information on the effects they have on patient’s overall health. But they’re still a popular alternative to silver fillings because composite resin can be treated to mimic the color of your natural teeth.

amalgam vs composite fillings

Amalgam

Composite

Strength

Sensitivity

Natural Look

Invasiveness

Ease of Use

Amalgam fillings rest on teeth and they expand, both of which weaken teeth.

Composite resin binds to the teeth and strengthens them.

Metal-based dental amalgam quickly transfers cold and heat to teeth and creates sensitivity.

Non-metal composite fillings are less likely to cause sensitivity.

Dental amalgam darkens with time.

Composite resin blends in with your teeth.

Amalgam fillings require more removal of your tooth structure.

Placing a composite filling is less invasive.

Amalgam is easier and faster to place.

Composite fillings require more time and skill to place. It’s placed in layers that need to be hardened by a special light. It needs to be shaped, smoothed, and polished.

Natural-Looking, Mercury-Free Fillings

Dr. Schof is an experienced cosmetic dentist who has the skill and technique required to place composite fillings that will last. He will ensure the composite material matches your teeth and enhances the aesthetic of your smile. When you smile or laugh, it will look completely natural.