Mercury-free fillings

How Can Mercury-Free Fillings Help?

Tooth-coloured fillings are ideal for:

• Treating cavities
  
• Replacing old metal fillings
  
• Repairing chipped or fractured teeth
  
• Closing small gaps
  
• Restoring worn or eroded enamel
  

Composite fillings are bonded to the tooth, which helps reinforce weakened tooth structure and reduces postoperative sensitivity. The result is a strong, long-lasting, and natural-looking restoration that supports both function and appearance.

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Why We Do Not Use Mercury (Amalgam) Fillings

Although amalgam has been used for decades and is considered durable, it comes with several drawbacks:

Disadvantages of Metal (Mercury) Fillings

• Poor esthetics: Metal fillings can darken the appearance of teeth.
  
• Long-term corrosion: Over time, amalgam can stain gums and enamel and may weaken around the edges.
  
• Non-bonded material: Most metal fillings are not bonded to the tooth, which may increase the risk of cracks or leakage.
  
• Expansion and contraction: Amalgam can change shape with temperature, potentially stressing the tooth.
  

For these reasons, and to provide the highest level of care, our practice has chosen to be 100% mercury-free.

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Advantages of Tooth-Coloured Restorations

Composite resin fillings offer numerous benefits:

• Excellent esthetics: The material is matched to your natural tooth shade for an invisible restoration.
  
• Strong and durable: Modern nano-technology provides compressive strength comparable to amalgam.
  
• Bonded to the tooth: This strengthens the remaining tooth structure and reduces sensitivity.
  
• Minimally invasive: Less removal of healthy tooth structure is required compared to metal fillings.
  
• Stain-resistant surface: Nano-filled composites maintain polish and resist discoloration.
  
• Versatile: Suitable for front and back teeth.
  

The result is a restoration that is both functional and beautiful.

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Nano-Technology in Composite Restorations

At Bronte Road Family Dental, every tooth-coloured filling is created using the latest generation of nano-hybrid composite materials. These advanced materials offer:

• High strength and fracture resistance
  
• Superior polish and shine
  
• Exceptional stain resistance
  
• Natural translucency and fluorescence
  
• A broad selection of shades to match your unique smile
  

Nano-technology allows us to deliver restorations that look and feel like natural teeth while maintaining long-term durability.

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What Is the Process?

Here is what you can expect during your mercury-free filling appointment.

Before the Appointment

Your dentist will assess the tooth with:

• Visual exam
  
• Digital X-rays, if needed
  
• Cavity risk assessment
  

No special preparation is required.

During the Appointment

1. The tooth is gently numbed for comfort.
   
2. Any decay or weakened tooth structure is carefully removed.
   
3. The area is cleaned and prepared for bonding.
   
4. Composite resin is applied in layers, shaped, and sculpted to match the tooth.
   
5. A special curing light hardens each layer.
   
6. The restoration is polished to achieve a smooth, natural finish.
   

A typical filling takes 20–40 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity.

After the Appointment

Most patients experience minimal to no sensitivity. You can resume normal eating and drinking once the numbness wears off.

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Risks to Be Aware Of

Composite fillings are safe and effective, but like all dental treatments, there are considerations:

• Mild sensitivity may occur temporarily
  
• Very large cavities may require crowns instead of fillings
  
• Composite materials may wear over time in patients with heavy grinding
  

Regular checkups allow your dentist to monitor the restoration and ensure long-term success.