Tooth-Colored Fillings
Mercury-free, tooth-colored fillings that repair decay and blend invisibly with your natural smile.
Cavities compromise tooth structure and compromise your health. Mercado Dental Studio treats cavities with tooth-colored composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth while protecting against further decay and damage. Unlike outdated amalgam fillings that contain mercury and are visually obvious, our composite restorations are aesthetically superior and health-conscious.
When decay is detected, we remove the affected tooth structure and fill the space with a bonded composite material that's precisely color-matched to your natural tooth. The result is a filling that's virtually invisible and maintains the natural appearance of your smile.
Composite fillings provide exceptional durability, flexibility that moves with your tooth, and proven long-term success. We avoid mercury-containing amalgam fillings entirely, opting instead for superior biocompatible materials that are safe and effective.
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Why Composite Fillings Are Better
Amalgam fillings, which contain 50% mercury, were standard for decades but are now recognized as inferior to modern composite options. Mercury is a known neurotoxin, and amalgam fillings are visually obvious with their dark gray appearance. Amalgam also doesn't flex with your tooth, which can cause additional cracking and stress on the tooth.
Composite resin fillings address these problems. They're tooth-colored and blend perfectly with your natural dentition, making them nearly invisible. Composites are flexible, moving with your tooth under chewing forces and reducing stress-related cracking. They're biocompatible and contain no toxic materials, making them the superior choice for your health and appearance.
Composite fillings require minimal tooth preparation compared to amalgam, preserving more healthy tooth structure. While they may cost slightly more than amalgam, their superior durability, appearance, and health benefits make them an excellent investment in your long-term oral health.
The Filling Process
The filling process begins with an examination and sometimes an X-ray to identify decay. Dr. Mercado applies local anesthesia to numb the tooth, then carefully removes all decayed tooth structure. The tooth is cleaned and prepared to receive the filling. An adhesive bonding agent is applied to the tooth surface, creating a strong bond between the composite and your tooth.
Tooth-colored composite material is carefully applied in layers, with each layer hardened using a special light. Dr. Mercado sculpts and shapes the filling to match your natural tooth contour perfectly, ensuring proper fit and bite. Once all layers are complete, the filling is polished to a high shine that matches your natural tooth surface.
The entire process typically takes one appointment. You'll leave with a restored tooth that's indistinguishable from your natural dentition. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, your composite filling will last many years. Avoid hard or sticky foods immediately after placement, and maintain regular brushing and flossing to keep your filling in optimal condition.
Restore Your Teeth with Composite Fillings
Schedule an appointment if you think you may have cavities or need to replace old fillings.