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As awareness about the potential harms of chemicals in everyday items grows, more people are seeking ways to reduce their exposure. This concern extends to the dentist's chair, where traditional amalgam fillings containing mercury have been a common choice for years. But many patients now prefer non-toxic dental fillings, specifically those made from BPA-free composite resin or high-quality porcelain. In this article, we will explore the advantages of these alternatives and discuss why Gentle Dental Associates is proud to offer them to our patients.
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1960s. It has been shown to mimic the body's natural hormones, causing a range of negative effects. Although dental fillings do not contain large amounts of BPA, some studies suggest that these materials can leach trace amounts of the chemical over time, raising concerns among patients and dentists alike. Fortunately, advances in modern dentistry have led to new non-toxic filling options that provide excellent functionality while reducing potential exposure to harmful substances.
One popular option for BPA-free dental fillings is composite resin, which has been in use since the 1960s. These tooth-colored fillings are made from glass or ceramic microscopic particles mixed with a plasticizer and hardened under ultraviolet (UV) light. The resulting material is strong and durable, capable of lasting for many years when properly maintained. In addition to being non-toxic, composite resin has other benefits over traditional amalgam fillings. It requires less removal of healthy tooth structure during placement, making it a more conservative option. Plus, because they are designed to match the color of your natural teeth, composite fillings can offer an aesthetically pleasing result compared to metallic-looking amalgam.
While composite resin fillings have become more popular due to their non-toxic properties, porcelain fillings remain the gold standard in dentistry. Porcelain is a biocompatible material that closely resembles natural tooth structure, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting, esthetically pleasing restorations. As with composite fillings, porcelain requires minimal removal of healthy tooth structure during placement, preserving more of the natural tooth for optimal function and appearance. Additionally, because porcelain is highly resistant to wear, staining, and chemical damage, these fillings can provide many years of trouble-free service.
In addition to being free of harmful chemicals like BPA, non-toxic dental fillings offer several other advantages. One key benefit is their lower sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures compared to metal fillings. This can translate into more comfort when consuming foods or beverages that are at extreme temperatures. Another advantage of composite and porcelain fillings is their ability to bond directly with the natural tooth structure, creating a strong and stable restoration that is less likely to leak or become loose over time. As a result, many patients find they require fewer fillings in the future due to these materials' durability.
At Gentle Dental Associates, we pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of dental technology and techniques to ensure our patients receive the best possible care. Our expert team of doctors offers a wide range of services, including non-toxic composite and porcelain fillings. We understand that your oral health is important, which is why we go above and beyond to ensure you receive personalized, gentle care in a comfortable environment. If you are interested in exploring non-toxic dental filling options for yourself or a family member, please don't hesitate to contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced professionals.
By Gentle Dental Associates
March 18, 2024
Non-toxic dental fillings are alternatives to traditional amalgam fillings that do not contain harmful substances such as mercury. They have been developed due to concerns about the potential long-term effects of these chemicals on human health, particularly children and fetuses. Examples include composite resin and high-quality porcelain.
BPA-free composite resin is a popular non-toxic dental filling material made from glass or ceramic microscopic particles mixed with a plasticizer and hardened under ultraviolet (UV) light. These fillings are tooth-colored, require minimal removal of healthy tooth structure during placement, and provide excellent functionality while reducing potential exposure to harmful substances.
Porcelain is a biocompatible material used in dental fillings that closely resembles natural tooth structure. It is highly resistant to wear, staining, and chemical damage, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting, esthetically pleasing restorations.
Non-toxic dental fillings offer several advantages over traditional amalgam fillings, such as being free of harmful chemicals like BPA. They also require less removal of healthy tooth structure during placement and can bond directly with the natural tooth structure, creating a strong and stable restoration that is less likely to leak or become loose over time.
At Gentle Dental Associates, we are proud to offer a wide range of services, including non-toxic composite and porcelain fillings. Our expert team of doctors uses advanced dentistry techniques and technology to ensure our patients receive the best possible care in a comfortable environment.
If you are interested in exploring non-toxic dental filling options, please don't hesitate to contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced professionals. We look forward to providing you with exceptional care and helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.
During the non-toxic dental filling process, our team will perform a thorough examination of your mouth and teeth to determine the best course of treatment. We will numb the area as needed for comfort, remove any decay or damage to the tooth, and prepare the tooth for the restoration. Once the tooth is ready, we will place the non-toxic filling, ensuring a secure fit and minimal discomfort.
Non-toxic composite resin and porcelain fillings can last for many years, providing excellent functionality and durability. Regular checkups and proper care at home are essential to maintain their longevity.
While the cost of non-toxic composite resin and porcelain fillings may be slightly higher initially, their long-term benefits can result in significant savings for patients. These fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure during placement, reducing the likelihood of additional dental work in the future.
Yes, non-toxic composite resin and high-quality porcelain are considered to be safe options for dental fillings. Both materials have been rigorously tested for their biocompatibility and safety in the human body.
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