In years past, the only option for dental fillings was a mixture of metals and mercury called ‘amalgam’. These fillings are not only aesthetically displeasing due to their dark color, but also potentially harmful if mercury is released into the bloodstream in large quantities or the tooth fractures due to the expansion and contraction of metals inside your tooth.
In recent years the technology for porcelain fillings has advanced so that they are actually stronger than metal fillings, generally, last much longer, reinforce and strengthen the tooth, and are much more aesthetically pleasing.
Due to this, many of our cosmetic dentistry patients opt for porcelain fillings when they have new cavities or would like to replace the amalgam fillings they have currently.
What Are Porcelain Fillings Used For?
They can be used to fill new cavities in decaying teeth or to replace unsightly, potentially dangerous mercury-metal amalgam fillings.
Who Is The Best Candidate For Porcelain Fillings?
Anyone who has a new cavity or would like to replace an old mercury-metal filling or old stained plastic filling. If this describes you, you should contact our office to schedule a complimentary smile analysis.
How Is The Filling Procedure Performed?
The procedure for applying porcelain fillings (opens in new tab) or using them to replace amalgam fillings is relatively simple. First, the diseased tissue or old amalgam filling is removed and the tooth is evaluated for fractures from the old metal fillings. Next, an impression of the affected tooth will be made so that the dental lab can create a new porcelain filling that is custom-crafted to fit securely in the tooth.
While the permanent porcelain filling is being fabricated, you will be fitted with a temporary. When the porcelain filling arrives, it will be permanently bonded to your natural tooth.
The color of the porcelain filling will provide you with a seamless restoration that will actually strengthen the tooth and help keep it from fracturing or breaking.
Patient Testimonials
Aesthetic Dentistry was able to see me very quickly when I had an issue arise. Tori was so kind and accommodating and scheduled a same day appointment. Amy and Dr. Devin were so helpful and resolved my issue efficiently, professionally and with a reassuring presence and comforting manner. I highly recommend Aesthetic Dentistry to anyone needing a great dental practice !
Are Porcelain Fillings Usually Covered By Dental Insurance?
If they are being used to fill a new cavity, insurance will usually cover a percentage of the cost. When replacing amalgam fillings, insurance does not generally cover the cost because it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Insurance companies have included language into your plan that allows them to avoid paying for newer technology and better treatment in favor of what they call the ‘lowest cost alternative’, which happens to be mercury-metal fillings introduced into dentistry in the late 1800s. The science of dentistry has grown quite a lot since the days before cars and planes were invented! Whether your insurance covers some of the cost or not, we can help you find a financing option that works with your budget.
Additional Porcelain Filling FAQs
They are superior for a variety of reasons. The first is that they now have the strength and density needed to adhere to your teeth better than metal. Secondly, they have the exact color and sheen of your natural teeth so no one will ever know the fillings are there. Lastly, they don’t contain any hazardous material such as mercury.
Yes, initially they are more expensive. But because porcelain fillings last longer than metal fillings, over time the cost ends up equaling out, or costing you a lot less. The typical life-cycle of a mercury metal filling is it fails requiring a larger filling a few times which weakens the tooth and increases the bacterial invasion of the pulp or nerve of the tooth. Eventually, the expansion and contraction of the metal in the tooth, combined with the wear and tear of biting, leads to a fracture and a part of the tooth actually breaks off. This results in a crown and very often, a root canal as well. Had that tooth been restored with a conservative porcelain filling, that generally stops that process and you get to keep more healthy tooth longer and likely won’t ever need treatment like root canals to help you keep that tooth for a lifetime.
If you stick to the recommended dental hygiene practices, they should last for decades.
Request A Complimentary Consultation in Georgetown
If you are located in the Georgetown, Texas area and you would like to have Porcelain Fillings, contact us today to schedule a complimentary cosmetic dentistry consultation. You can also learn more about how we can transform your teeth into your new smile – download our FREE e-book here.
To browse through additional before and after photos for other cosmetic procedures visit our Before & After Gallery.
