Old Metal Fillings Florham Park NJ

Amalgam fillings have been used by dentists for over 100 years. They are the most thoroughly researched and tested material in use for dental fillings. While there have been many studies citing concern, amalgam fillings are completely safe. That said, many patients come to Dr. Upadya to have their amalgam fillings removed for esthetic reasons.

Today, there is a wide range of tooth-colored dental fillings available including composite fillings and porcelain fillings.

Types of Dental Fillings

Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings, also called silver fillings or metal fillings, are a very common type of restoration. Most cosmetic dentists today prefer to use tooth colored materials instead of amalgam fillings. Amalgam fillings are extremely durable and effective for preventing tooth decay and restoring damaged teeth.

Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are made of tooth-colored, biocompatible resin. Very little tooth structure is removed when placing composite fillings and they have broken to be very effective and long lasting.

Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are also called indirect dental fillings because they are made from a mold rather than applied directly to the tooth as in composite fillings. An onlay is a type of porcelain filling that covers the entire biting surface, whereas an inlay is smaller and fits within the contours of the tooth. Porcelain fillings are typically used when there is more extensive damage or to restore teeth that need to withstand stronger biting force. Learn more about dental fillings

Amalgam Vs. Composite Fillings

Dr. Raj Upadya is an experienced cosmetic dentist. He will evaluate your condition to determine what type of dental filling is best for you. In most cases, Dr. Upadya will prefer to use non-metal dental fillings for both esthetic and functional reasons.

Removing Amalgam Fillings

If you have amalgam fillings, you may be able to have them replaced with a non-metal type of restoration. Removing amalgam fillings is a relatively simple procedure. Dr. Upadya will take diagnostic images of the tooth to ensure that the remaining structure is healthy and will not be adversely affected by removing amalgam fillings.

Once the metal filling is removed, Dr. Upadya can replace it with composite fillings or porcelain fillings depending on your situation.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have amalgam fillings and are interested in replacement options, please contact our New Jersey dental office for a consultation with Dr. Raj Upadya. Call us at 973-241-5169 or click here to request more information.