What Are Mercury Free Fillings?
When you have a cavity, there’s the need to remove the decayed portion and replace it with a filling. For many years, various types of amalgam were used for those fillings. In some places, amalgam is still used. An alternative is to go with what’s known as a mercury free or amalgam free filling. Here are some things you should know about this option and why it’s worth considering.
What are Mercury Free Fillings?
Mercury free fillings are non amalgam fillings that do not contain any traces of mercury. Many types of amalgams that may be referred to as silver or gold amalgams contain some amount of mercury. While popular for many years, many dentists prefer to rely on composite fillings that do not contain any mercury at all. In fact, you will find Markham dentists who do not recommend amalgam fillings to their patients at all.
Are Mercury Free Fillings Better for Your Teeth?
There is evidence that mercury free fillings in Markham are not as invasive as other filling options. In other words, the filling is less likely to cause additional damage to healthy teeth tissue. There are some cases of amalgam fillings eventually leading to cracking or other damage. There is even some risk to the tooth root.
Opting for a mercury free filling minimizes the potential for more damage to take place. The material will not weaken the remaining tissue. That helps protect the nerves in the root and reduces the potential for periodic pain.
Read more: What Is Dental Surgery and How Is It Used?
How About Longevity?
While the idea of no additional damage sounds great, how long will a mercury free filling last? you can expect this type of filling to last just as long as any of the other types of fillings. In cases involving children, there is even some evidence that mercury free fillings will last longer than the older amalgam fillings.
Will The Fillings Take Longer to Install?
There is no difference in the amount of time it takes to install a mercury free filling compared to an amalgam filling. The process is basically the same and the materials are just as easy for the dental professional to handle.
What if the Filling Needs Repair?
This is one area where mercury free fillings are a better choice than the older amalgam fillings. Repairing a damaged filling that is mercury free takes less time and effort than repairing the older style filling. That’s because the materials are easier to work with and the professional can get the job done faster.
Read more: What is The Difference Between a Dentist and a Cosmetic Dentist?
Fillings and the Environment
Mercury free fillings don’t pose the health risks that we now know are associated with the use of mercury in any form. In addition, the newer filling option is better for the environment. Since it is healthier for you and kinder to the environment, it makes sense to go with a mercury free filling.
There is more to learn about mercury free fillings and how they compare to other options. Talk with your dentist today and go over the merits of this solution. You will find that mercury free fillings are best for you today and in the long run.
See what our patients are saying:
Everyone here is very friendly and provides excellent care. I received a full exam on my first visit, and everyone took time to answer my questions and ensured I felt comfortable the entire time - exactly what you want when visiting the dentist. I highly recommend Markham Smile Centre for anyone looking for great dental care.
There is an ample parking space before you get into the office. The receptionists welcome us friendly with proper COVID-19 procedures in place. The staff worked with patient very patiently and professionally. My teeth cleaning was done by Ying, she explained every detail to me and I did not feel any pain or uncomfortable at all. Thanks to the best team !
It's been a while since I've been to a dentist but I'm trying to get back on track with health in general. Overall it was great going to Markham Smile Centre! The receptionist (I believe she was Kim) was friendly. The hygienist, Ying, was attentive and gentle during the cleaning; x-ray tech (forgot her name, sorry!) was great too. Dr. Sara Riad explained things with good detail. Looking forward to going back!
I was someone who was nervous and anxious about visiting the dentist, but the team at Markham Smile Centre has made me feel SO comfortable. Kim is so patient and helpful and Dr. Hwang and Rory are both so professional and wonderful. They thoroughly explain the procedure to make you comfortable beforehand and are very gentle. I now look forward to visiting the dentist!
I found this place on a whim when I was looking for a new dentist in Markham. My hygienist ying was super nice and her cleaning was very gentle yet thorough. I saw Dr.Jason and he was very nice and informative in regards to what needs to be done and provided me with all the information I needed to make a choice. Would recommend this place to anyone looking for a new dentist, they’re accepting new patients!!
I have been to many dentists in my life, Dr. Jason is easily the best dentist I have ever been too. He does everything he can to make you comfortable no matter the procedure and is a true professional, as does all the staff at Markham Smile Centre. Truly an amazing dentistry
The clinic was clean and the staff was very polite. I particularly liked the fact that everything was explained to me before going in for the procedure so I knew what to expect at each step. The dental hygienist who did the cleaning for me was also very gentle and took my concerns into consideration. I will definitely recommend them.
Upon arriving to the Markham Smile Centre, my son and I were greeted with a warm welcome by the receptionists. The hygienists and Dentist were very gentle and transparent with what they were doing. The hygienist that worked on my 9 year old son was patient and very friendly with him, which helped ease his nerves. Our overall experience was A+.
Since I was little, I have always hated going to the dentist... Its always uncomfortable and unpleasant. These days, visiting the dentist isn’t so bad! Dr Jason, Rory, and the lovely staff at reception make the experience 100x better. I have had absolutely no issues with the gum graft and cleanings that I’ve gotten done here. Everyone is incredibly friendly and helpful, even when I’m calling in or emailing a hundred questions :). I would highly recommend Markham Smile Centre.
Love this place! All the staffs are friendly and Professional and I mean all, cause I've been to most of their office, Markham , Stouffville, North York, and Maple. Dr. Ko is very professional and patient. Whenever I have questions and concerns he would always reply me . I would say this this dental office take care of you all the way. I would highly recommend everyone to come here for any dental works. =)