Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI
Alloy metals have been used in dentistry for decades as a way to repair teeth from fillings to crowns. Amalgam has long since been used for fillings in back teeth and crowns are often fabricated with porcelain as the outer layer and an alloy metal as the sublayer. But some studies reveal that these metals may not always be the safest choice and certainly not the most aesthetic. In recent years, dentists have begun offering metal-free dentistry which comes with several advantages. Today on our newest blog, explore four reasons to talk to your dentist about metal-free dentistry.
Reason 1) Preserve more tooth structure
Restorative dentistry aims to preserve as much of the tooth’s natural structure as possible. But with metal fillings and crowns, it requires more of the tooth to be removed. However, repairing a tooth using metal-free filling material leaves more of your tooth intact. Additionally, porcelain fused to metal crowns are thicker, unlike all porcelain crown that are thinner, which require more of the tooth to be removed during the prepping process.
Reason 2) Metal-free is a healthier option
Amalgam or silver fillings contain approximately 50% mercury, which has been linked to health risks that could cause neurological and immunological consequences. These risks could be even more serious for children or women that are pregnant. If you have amalgam fillings, a little bit of the metal is released every time your teeth bite together. Instead of metal dental treatments, opt for a healthier alternative by having our Royal Oak dentist, Dr. Nancy Hartrick, replace your old metal fillings with composites for a healthier, safer alternative.
Reason 3) Less risk of causing tooth damage
Old metal fillings can be problematic for teeth because they are prone to leak, split, or cause the remaining portion of the tooth to break. And in some cases, these issues may leave little to no tooth structure left for repairs. If your amalgam fillings cannot be replaced with composites, an all-porcelain crown may be placed over the tooth to protect it against additional damage.
Reason 4) Looks more aesthetic
Metal fillings can often make the tooth look gray or discolored. And the metal edging on a porcelain fused to metal crown can make the gum around the tooth look gray as well. However, metal-free dentistry is matched to the color of your natural tooth structure and won’t affect the color of your gums.
Metal-free dentistry in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan
At Hartrick Dentistry, we offer metal-free fillings, crowns, and bridges, and an orthodontic option, Invisalign, that does not require any metal. Whether you need a filling, crown, or orthodontic treatment, you can achieve your smile goals without any metal. Dr. Hartrick is also experienced in safely removing amalgam fillings to reduce your exposure to these metals during the removal process. To learn more about metal-free dentistry or explore your options, contact Hartrick Dentistry by calling (248) 549-0950.