What is a dental filling?
Dental fillings are the preferred treatment for most cavities. A filling replaces the decayed portion of a tooth, restoring the tooth’s function, structure, and health.
What fillings are available?
Dr. Gross uses tooth-colored composite resin fillings, instead of amalgams. Made from a durable, tooth-colored plastic, composite fillings require a minimal amount of tooth preparation. Our special, holistic composite fillings contain no BPA, a chemical found in some plastics. This means, our fillings don’t subject patients to the potentially harmful effects of false hormones believed to be in BPA.
Another common concern about fillings is the mercury found in amalgams. Although the medical community is divided over whether traditional amalgam fillings that contain mercury are dangerous to overall health, we take every precaution to practice safe dentistry. The FDA warns pregnant women and people with mercury sensitivity to avoid amalgam dental fillings. Dr. Gross chooses to place holistic fillings to reduce the risk for health complications from mercury. Ours is an amalgam-free dental office.
Can my old amalgam fillings be replaced with composite fillings?
Yes! Dr. Gross is experienced at removing amalgam with an environmentally and health-friendly process, then replacing them with composite fillings, inlays, onlays, or crowns. For patients who are self-conscious about their smile because of conspicuous metal fillings, Dr. Gross can help improve their self-esteem with more modern and natural looking composite fillings. Composite fillings blend with tooth color and look natural.
How are composite fillings placed?
Placing composite fillings is a less invasive procedure than placing amalgam fillings. To prepare your tooth, we might employ air abrasion, and alternative to the traditional dental drill. After Dr. Gross removes decay, he will fill the void with a composite resin, tinted to match the color of your affected tooth. You will leave our office with a restored smile and confidence that your fillings are undetectable to others.