Auburn Mercury Free Dentist
Dentist's have been doing amalgam/silver fillings since the 1840s, when they realized they could make a paste out of a mixture of silver and mercury, and press it into a tooth after they had drilled out the decay and weak tooth structure. This was a real breakthrough in dental medicine. In fact, it has been the standard of care for over 150 years. Though they are commonly called silver fillings, amalgam fillings are actually about 50% mercury.
In the 1980s two more technological breakthroughs enabled some new advances in filling technology. First, a white composite filling material was developed that was strong enough to serve as fillings for back teeth. At about the same time there were advances in bonding technology that enabled the fillings to be bonded directly to the teeth. Though some dentists preferred to stay with the method they've done for years and were comfortable with, others were excited about and embraced the new technology. Dr. Bolt is one of the latter. Not only is his office mercury free, but they are metal free as well.
Advantages of Mercury Free Fillings
- They bond directly to the tooth, making them stronger. Amalgam fillings weaken the tooth structure.
- Much less tooth structure has to be removed to place a composite filling as compared with an amalgam one.
- There is less post operative sensitivity, because composite fillings do not conduct hot and cold the way metal does.
- Composite fillings seal adjacent, vulnerable parts of the tooth against recurrent decay.
- They have no mercury in them.
- Composite fillings are more attractive because they blend in with your natural tooth color. You can get a sample of the difference in the pictures below.
If you are looking for a mercury free dentist in Auburn, you may request an appointment with our office.