Fillings & Restorations

Mercury-Free Dentistry at Bridgewater Dental Center

​

At Bridgewater Dental Center, we are proud to offer mercury-free dental care. Many patients still have older silver (amalgam) fillings from years past, but modern dentistry has come a long way. Not only are these older fillings less attractive, but over time they can weaken the tooth structure around them.

​

Today, we offer porcelain inlays and tooth-colored restorations (onlays) that are both beautiful and durable, thanks to advanced bonding technology. These restorations don’t just blend seamlessly with your natural teeth — they also reinforce and strengthen them.

​

Why Replace Silver Fillings?

​

Silver (amalgam) fillings have several known drawbacks:

​

• Over time, the edges of silver fillings can wear down, crack, or break, making it easier for cavities to form again.

• Metal fillings expand and contract with temperature changes, which can lead to fractures in the surrounding tooth.

• Silver fillings contain about 50% mercury and may corrode or stain nearby teeth and gums over time.

​

The good news is that these old fillings can be safely replaced with strong, natural-looking alternatives.

​

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Restorations

​

Choosing a tooth-colored restoration offers several advantages:

​

• Stronger bond: Resin onlays bond tightly to the natural tooth, providing excellent support, even when a significant portion of the tooth is missing.

• Added protection: Many resin materials include fluoride, which helps protect against future decay.

• Natural appearance: Tooth-colored restorations mimic the strength and look of natural enamel, blending beautifully into your smile.

• Healthier for your gums: These restorations fit precisely without extending into the gum line, promoting better gum health.

​

The result is a restoration that looks great, feels natural, and strengthens your smile for years to come.

​

The Process of Replacing Silver Fillings

​

Replacing silver fillings with tooth-colored restorations typically takes two appointments:

​

First Appointment:

​

• The old filling and any new decay are carefully removed.

• An impression of your tooth is taken to create a custom-fitted restoration.

• A temporary onlay is placed to protect your tooth while your permanent onlay is made.

​

At the Dental Lab:

​

• Using your impression, the lab designs a natural-looking onlay from durable resin materials.

​

Second Appointment:

​

• The temporary onlay is removed.

• A special conditioning gel prepares your tooth for bonding.

• The new restoration is cemented into place using a high-intensity light to securely bond it.

• Final polishing ensures a smooth, natural finish.

​

Afterward, your tooth will feel natural, look beautiful, and enjoy renewed strength and protection.

​

About Dental Amalgam

​

Dental amalgam has been used successfully for over 150 years. It’s a blend of mercury and other metals and has historically been valued for its strength, affordability, and durability.

​

Amalgam fillings are easier to place in certain situations because the material stays pliable for a short time before hardening. Typically, amalgam fillings last 10–12 years — longer than many early versions of resin-based composites. However, modern composite materials have greatly improved, narrowing the lifespan gap significantly.

​

In some cases, composite (tooth-colored) fillings are the better choice, especially for smaller restorations where preserving natural tooth structure is important.

Both amalgam and composite fillings are considered safe and effective by the American Dental Association. However, at Bridgewater Dental Center, we prioritize mercury-free, aesthetic, and conservative treatments whenever possible to provide you with care that supports both your smile and your overall health.