Tooth-colored fillings (also called dental composites) repair small cavities and blend in naturally, so you often can’t tell there’s been any dental work. Walnut Creek restorative dentist Dr. Julia Lee uses clinically tested, bio-compatible, white tooth filling to repair cavities and cracks, and to responsibly replace old or failing mercury-based metal dental fillings. Tooth-colored fillings make sure your cavities stay between you and your dentist. If you have a cavity that needs to be filled, or if you want to replace old metal fillings, Dr. Julia Lee of The Center For Dental Implants and Dentistry in Walnut Creek would be happy to help with personal service and affordable, eco-friendly white filling options. 

Disadvantages of Metal Fillings Metal fillings are surrounded by controversy concerning their safety and effectiveness. Metal fillings, first introduced in 1819 and largely unchanged ever since are typically 50% mercury, and the other half is a mixture of silver, copper, and tin. Many researchers believe this toxic mercury may continue leeching into your mouth, saliva, and bloodstream years after the filling has been placed. In addition, metal fillings expand and contract at a much greater rate than your natural enamel. For this reason, when you eat hot food and drink hot or cold drinks, the greater expansion can serve as a wedge to crack your teeth, and the contraction can leave voids where bacteria will infiltrate. In addition to these issues, metal fillings give many patients the appearance of a “metal mouth” and are viewed as unattractive.