Over the years as dentistry has evolved, there have been a growing number of options available for repairing teeth. The goal of dentistry has always been to develop materials that would simulate natural tooth structure as closely as possible, in both appearance and physical properties, and avoiding any potential harmful side effects.

In the past few years there has been a growing concern for the potential health hazards imposed by use of dental materials that include toxic compounds.The most common source of concern has been the mercury found in silver fillings. Mercury is one of the most toxic metals found in nature and is a major component of silver amalgam fillings.

In addition to concerns of Bio-compatibility, when choosing a restoration we have to consider the size of the defect that is being repaired, the function of the tooth, and the biting surface involved. Strength, durability, and cosmetic acceptability are all considerations when choosing a restorative material.

		A typical Silver Amalgam Filling with fractures and underlying decay
		Beautifully restored with Bio-compatible porcelain restorations

COMPOSITE FILLINGS:

Composites are a tooth colored material that is a combination of glass like particles and a resin. The material bonds strongly to the tooth structure and the glass-like particles make the material resistant to wear. The use of these materials are restricted to smaller type fillings and areas not under heavy chewing pressure.

INLAYS:

We often encounter situations where a significant part of the biting surface of a tooth has been damaged and weakened. Here the material of choice would be a ceramic or gold inlay. Both are both well tolerated from a biological standpoint and provide the strength and durability that is needed.

ONLAYS & CROWNS:

When the defect to be repaired grows to a significant size, the strength of the tooth will be compromised. Teeth with very large silver amalgam fillings often develop cracks that extend deep into the tooth structure. These teeth are best restored by a means that covers and reinforces the strength of the tooth by completely covering it. A ceramic or gold, onlay or full crown, accomplishes this objective.