Alternatives to Amalgam Fillings and Metal Restorations

While deemed safe by the Food and Drug Administration, there has been a recent push for the discontinued use of amalgam fillings in dentistry. From concerns over the long-term safety of these mercury-based restorations to the aesthetic disadvantages that come with metal fillings, innovation in dental technology has seen the development of more aesthetic, non-metal restorations for patients of varying needs. Some of the more popular alternatives to metal fillings include:

Composite Resin Fillings
Also known as tooth-colored or white fillings, composite resin fillings are among the most common alternative to traditional amalgam restorations. This metal-free alternative is made of an acrylic resin reinforced with powdered glass filler and can be customized to match the precise shade of the affected tooth. As the white filling blends in naturally and is highly durable, composite fillings serve as an ideal alternative to metal fillings.

Porcelain Inlays and Onlays:
Depending on the extent of damage, patients may be recommended a porcelain inlay or onlay. Unlike composite fillings, which are molded to fit within the tooth and made of a combination of materials, inlays and onlays are made of pure porcelain and manufactured at a dental laboratory. Inlays and onlays provide more comprehensive tooth coverage than a filling and are tailored to blend in naturally with the rest of a patient’s teeth.

Porcelain Crowns:
In some cases, a filling, onlay, or inlay may not provide sufficient coverage to a damaged tooth. Porcelain crowns can be recommended to effectively reinforce tooth structure, allowing patients to enjoy restored oral function and health without the aesthetic disadvantages of a metal crown or metal-fused-to-porcelain crown. In addition to providing patients with a highly durable and lasting alternative to metal crowns or fillings, porcelain crowns at Aesthetic Dentistry of Scottsdale can be created in our office to meet lab-quality standards.

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At our Scottsdale cosmetic dental practice, Dr. Michael Kelly and his team are proud to offer patients a number of alternatives to amalgam and metal-based restorations. In addition to metal-free restorative care, Aesthetic Dentistry of Scottsdale also offers amalgam-filling removal in accordance to IAOMT standards. From the removal of metal fillings to the placement of composite fillings and other metal-free alternatives, our team is committed to providing patients with beautiful, healthy smiles.