Metal Free Fillings

Metal-free fillings provide an affordable and more discreet alternative to traditional amalgam fillings. At Family Dental Group in Gardner, Paxton, and Northborough, Massachusetts, the team of general dentists offers metal-free fillings made from composite resins and glass ionomer. These restorations can restore your biting and chewing abilities and preserve your natural teeth. Call the nearest office to make an appointment, or book one online today.

What are metal-free fillings?

Metal-free fillings repair or restore decaying or damaged tooth enamel.

Traditionally, dental fillings were made of amalgam –– a combination of metals, including copper, silver, and tin. Though durable, amalgam fillings are silver and highly visible whenever you open your mouth to yawn or speak.

Metal-free fillings are made of tooth-colored materials. Before applying the filling, your Family Dental Group provider uses a shade guide to ensure the filling will blend with the rest of your smile.

Are there different types of metal-free fillings?

The Family Dental Group team offers several types of metal-free fillings.

Composite resin

Composite resin fillings are made of a mixture of resin and glass. They look similar to your natural tooth enamel and reflect light in the same way.

Glass ionomer

Glass ionomer is made from silicate glass powder. The material isn’t as durable as composite resin, but it looks similar.

What’s the process for getting metal-free fillings?

Your Family Dental Group provider numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic and uses a dental laser to remove your decaying or damaged tooth enamel. They then rinse your tooth with an antiseptic solution, eliminating harmful bacteria and remaining debris.

After preparing your tooth, your provider applies the composite resin or glass ionomer filling. Then, they point a special light at the material, causing it to harden and dry. Last, your provider polishes the filling, checks your bite, and provides aftercare instructions.

Are metal-free fillings painful?

Getting a metal-free filling is quick and painless. After the anesthetic wears off, it’s normal to experience increased tooth sensitivity and mild soreness. But these symptoms should go away in a day or two.

How long do metal-free fillings last?

Metal-free fillings last 5-7 years on average but can last longer.* To keep your metal-free filling in top condition, the Family Dental Group team recommends:

• Brushing your teeth twice daily
• Floss between your teeth at least once daily
• Visiting the nearest office every six months for preventive teeth cleaning
• Not chewing on hard objects like ice cubes or candy
• Wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play sports

If you notice your metal-free filling wearing down, contact Family Dental Group. The team can repair or replace it.

Call the nearest Family Dental Group office to see if you can benefit from metal-free fillings, or book your appointment online today.

*Individual results may vary.