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After decay is removed from a
tooth, something must be placed in that space to give strength
back to the tooth. Our office only uses mercury-free fillings.
 White
fillings: White (metal-free) fillings are an alternative
to silver (mercury amalgam) fillings. White fillings are made
of a strong composite resin that is matched to the surrounding
tooth color. In the past, white fillings were placed only
on front teeth, but a stronger, more durable material has
been developed that can withstand the chewing pressure of
back teeth.
White fillings are often preferrable because:
- Many patients prefer mercury-free fillings
- Cosmetic reasons
- Patients with sensitivity to heat or cold find metal-free
fillings to be more comfortable.
 White
Porcelain inlay or onlay: A porcelain inlay or onlay is
used when the cavity is too big
for a filling, but isn't so big that a crown
is required. An inlay is a filling within the cusp tips of
the tooth. Onlays (also known as overlays) will overlay one
or more cusps in order to protect and strengthen the tooth.
An inlay or onlay may also be made of gold.
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