Fillings & Restorations
Tooth Fillings
We are a mercury-free practice. However, many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are aesthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.
Disadvantages of Silver fillings:
Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak, or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and lets cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split.
Silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak, and cause stains on your teeth and gums.
Fortunately, Fillings & Restorations go hand-in-hand as silver fillings can safely be replaced with Tooth-Colored Restorations.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations
There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin onlays are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.
Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contains fluoride this can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums!
The result is a beautiful smile!
Replacing Silver Fillings with Tooth Colored Restorations
You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This process requires two appointments.
Your First Appointment:
- The old filling is removed along with any additional decay.
- An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.
- A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.
At the Lab: A resin is carefully placed into the model of your teeth. It is then designed to look natural.
Your Second Appointment:
- The temporary onlay is removed.
- A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
- Bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high-intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
- The tooth is then polished.
Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!
Dental Fillings FAQs
Do dental fillings hurt?
Most patients feel little to no discomfort during a filling. We use local anesthesia to numb the area before any decay is removed, so you should only feel mild pressure during the procedure. Some sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is normal for a few days afterward and typically fades on its own. If soreness lingers longer than a week or seems to worsen, give us a call so we can take a look.
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, tooth-colored restorations can last 10 years or longer. Their lifespan depends on factors like the size of the filling, your bite, and how well you care for your teeth at home. Routine visits allow us to catch early signs of wear before they become bigger problems.
Do I need to replace all my silver fillings right away?
Not necessarily. If your existing silver fillings are intact and not causing pain, sensitivity, or visible damage, there is no urgent need to replace them. Many patients choose to update them gradually, starting with the ones showing the most wear. We are happy to evaluate your fillings at your next visit and let you know what makes sense for your smile.
Does insurance cover fillings?
Coverage varies by plan, but many insurance providers do cover a portion of filling costs, especially for cavity treatment. As one of the trusted dental clinics in Tampa, FL that works with a wide range of insurance providers, we are glad to help verify your benefits before treatment so there are no surprises.
Ready for a Healthier, More Confident Smile?
Whether you are dealing with an old silver filling or a new cavity, our team is here to help you get comfortable, natural-looking results. As one of the dental clinics in Tampa, FL known for gentle, patient-first care, we take the time to explain your options and make every visit easy. Call Dental Office of Tampa at 813-450-1212 to schedule your appointment or ask any questions about your coverage. We would love to help you smile with confidence again.
Schedule your appointment Now
If you would like to schedule an appointment you can call our offices at: 813-450-1212