Camouflage Your "Metal Mouth"

    /24-7PressRelease/ - July 02, 2008 - Do you have a "metal mouth?" No, we're not talking about metal braces, but rather those old silver fillings in your back teeth. If you're bothered or embarrassed by those dark spots lurking in your mouth - the ones that pop into view when you yawn or laugh out loud - there is an alternative available.

Porcelain fillings (or metal-free fillings) can be used to replace existing fillings or treat new cavities. These fillings are made to match the natural color of your teeth and have many advantages over traditional amalgam, or mercury-silver fillings:

• More attractive
• Won't darken over time
• Stronger bonding to prevent future fractures
• Less sensitive to heat and cold
• Less susceptible to pain when biting
• Do not release potential toxins into the body
• Amalgam fillings will also turn black over time, and they can even darken the entire tooth. In cases like this, bleaching will not change the appearance of the tooth.

Because porcelain fillings bond directly to the surface of the tooth, they tend to be stronger than amalgam fillings. They protect the tooth from fracturing because they don't require the severe "undercut" (removal of healthy tooth structure) of mercury fillings. When fractures do happen in fillings, a patient may develop sensitivity to heat and cold as well as biting pain. Porcelain fillings help to preserve healthy tooth structure.

Dentists are divided on the subject that mercury used in amalgam fillings can be toxic. Although the American Dental Association (ADA) believes the use of mercury in metal restorations is safe, questions still arise about the neurotoxic effects. You can eliminate this potential risk by choosing metal-free fillings.

Over time the use of alloyed metals in teeth restorations can also cause:

• Serious damage to teeth structure
• Corrosion in the mouth
• Gum problems due to decay beneath the metal
• Unattractive dark lines at the gum line
• Low-grade metal allergies

Porcelain placement

Similar to amalgam, metal-free fillings can be done in one visit. The dentist will prepare the tooth with a thorough cleaning followed by materials to protect the tooth and increase the strength of the bond. The composite material is then placed on the tooth and hardened by a special curing light. It is important to choose a dentist who has a proven track record using this technique.

Porcelain fillings can preserve healthy tooth structure and keep your smile bright. This proactive approach to fillings helps intercept the potential of fracture, virtually eliminating tooth sensitivity. More and more patients are enjoying the benefits of this procedure.

If you feel that porcelain fillings are right for you, please contact Dr. Gary Alhadef in the Dallas, Texas area to set up an initial consultation.

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