Tooth Fillings

We are a mercury-free practice. However, many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are esthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.

Disadvantages of Silver fillings:

Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and lets cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split.

Silver fillings contain 50 percent mercury. They can corrode, leak and cause stains on your teeth and gums.

Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with Tooth-Colored Restorations.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin onlays are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.

Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contain fluoride this can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums!

The result is a beautiful smile!

Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration

You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This process requires two appointments.

Your First Appointment:

  1. The old filling is removed along with any additional decay.
  2. An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.
  3. A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.

At the Lab: A resin is carefully placed into the model of your teeth. It is then designed to look natural.

Your Second Appointment:

  1. The temporary onlay is removed.
  2. A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
  3. Bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
  4. The tooth is then polished.

Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!

See What Our Patients Are Saying About Us

“In the past I had moved from dentist to dentist, but I finally feel at home here.  The hygienist is very friendly and aware of my needs.  Dr. Fredericks is warm and compassionate.  The atmosphere in the office is very comforting and professional.  I highly recommend this practice to anyone in the area. “

“I hadn’t been to the dentist in several years, if I had known it was going to be this comfortable I would have gone a long time ago. Dr. Fredericks and her staff make you feel welcomed. I had quite a bit of work that needed to be done and they never made me feel bad about it. I would recommend Dr. Fredericks and her team to anyone looking for a dentist. “

“This dentist and her staff are one of the best kept secrets of Federal Way! Caring, meticulous, gifted, wonderful people!”

“I needed some cosmetic work done on four of my front teeth. I asked a few friends if they knew of a good cosmetic dentist. My co-worker recommended I see Dr. Fredericks. The office looks great and all the staff were polite and friendly. Dr. Fredericks is very professional and skilled at what she does. The crowns she did look fantastic and very natural. She’s not just a doctor. She is a true artist! I honestly could not be happier with the results. Best dentist I’ve had. ”