Hi there! Dr. Jennifer Buchanan here from You First Dental in Airdrie. Today, let’s talk about something shiny, silver, and a little outdated—no, not disco pants. I’m talking about those silver amalgam fillings. You know, the ones that glint like little disco balls every time you laugh or yawn.
If you have a few of them in your mouth, you’re not alone. For decades, silver fillings were the go-to solution for cavities. They were durable, affordable, and did the job. But just like rotary phones and VHS tapes, they’ve had their time. Today, we have a better option: natural-looking, tooth-coloured composite (white) fillings.
So, let’s dive into why you might want to swap out the silver and bring your smile into the 21st century.
Benefit #1: A Healthier Option
Amalgam fillings are made with a mix of metals, including mercury. While the levels are considered safe, many people (and dentists like me) prefer to reduce mercury exposure whenever possible. Think of it like cutting back on fast food—you could survive on it, but why not make healthier choices if you have the option?
Composite fillings are mercury-free. They bond directly to the tooth structure, which means less drilling, less stress on your tooth, and a healthier long-term option for your smile. It’s like upgrading from a gas-guzzling car to a hybrid—just smarter for the long haul.
Benefit #2: Better Looking
Let’s be honest—no one ever said, “Wow, I love how those silver spots sparkle when you smile.” Silver fillings don’t exactly scream “confidence.” They can darken over time and even stain the tooth around them, making your smile look older than it is.
Composite fillings, on the other hand, are colour-matched to your natural teeth. Once they’re in, no one will ever know you had a cavity there in the first place. You’ll be free to laugh, sing, or belt out karaoke without flashing a mouth full of silver. Unless, of course, you’re actually wearing disco pants and want to match.
Benefit #3: Stronger Teeth
Here’s a little dental science for you: silver fillings don’t actually bond to the tooth. They sit in place, held by mechanical retention (that’s a fancy way of saying the dentist has to carve out more tooth to wedge the filling in). Over time, this can cause cracks and fractures.
Composite fillings, however, bond directly to your tooth structure. That makes the tooth stronger, not weaker. It’s like fixing a wobbly chair leg with wood glue instead of duct tape—the glue becomes part of the chair. White fillings actually reinforce your tooth instead of stressing it out.
“Do I Have to Replace Them All at Once?”
Great question! The short answer is: absolutely not. Unless you’ve always dreamed of spending an entire day in the dental chair (which I highly doubt), replacing old fillings can be done in stages.
Here’s how it usually works:
- We prioritize the fillings that are cracked, leaking, or causing issues.
- Next, we can schedule replacement of the ones that are just… well, ugly. (No offense to your fillings, but they had their day.)
- Over time, you can phase out the silver and upgrade to white, one appointment at a time.
Think of it as renovating your house. You don’t redo the kitchen, bathrooms, and basement all in one weekend (unless you’re on a home reno TV show). Instead, you tackle one project at a time until your whole home feels brand new. Same goes for your mouth.
Common Concerns
“But my silver fillings are still working—do I really need to replace them?”
If they’re healthy and intact, you don’t need to. But if you’d like to upgrade for health, strength, or looks, we can discuss your options.
“Isn’t it expensive to replace them?”
Replacing fillings is an investment in your long-term oral health. Remember, stronger teeth now can prevent costly dental work later. Plus, by spreading out treatment, you can make it budget-friendly.
“Will it hurt?”
Let’s just say we’re pros at making dental visits comfortable. With modern techniques (and maybe a little banter to keep you laughing), most patients are surprised at how easy it feels.
White dental fillings in Airdrie: Your Smile, Your Choice
At You First Dental, our goal isn’t to pressure you into an “all or nothing” decision. We simply want you to know that you have choices—and that those old silver fillings don’t have to stick around forever.
Switching to white fillings means:
- A healthier, mercury-free option
- Stronger teeth that are less prone to cracking
- A smile that looks natural, youthful, and confident
And best of all—you can take it step by step, at your own pace.
Ready to Trade Disco for Modern Style?
If you’re curious about replacing your old silver fillings, let’s chat. We’ll take a look, make a personalized plan, and replace them on your schedule.
So, out with the old, in with the white! Because your smile deserves to look as healthy as it feels.
Book an appointment today at You First Dental, and let’s start making those silver fillings a thing of the past.
YOU FIRST DENTAL
Dr. Jennifer Buchanan
