Tooth Fillings • Columbia SC
We provide mercury free fillings. 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 aesthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.
Read our Patient Testimonials for Tooth Fillings below!
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% 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 contains fluoride, it 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:
- The old filling is removed along with any additional decay.
- An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.
- 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:
- The temporary onlay is removed.
- A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.
- Bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.
- The tooth is then polished.
Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger and the tooth is protected!
Patient Reviews: Dental Fillings
Please read testimonials from our patients. If you wish to rate your experience with Crescent Prosthodontics, we invite you to fill out an online patient review.
You may also read and write patient reviews on our Google listing.
Crescent Prosthodontics
Patient Testimonial
They are so friendly at the office and the dr. is fantastic. I am terrified of Dentist but he is wonderful. Didn't hurt at all. He is the only dentist I will let touch my mouth now.
- Sandra and David P
Patient Testimonial
Extremely professional and knowledgeable staff! Very happy with my visit.
- Meredith O
Patient Testimonial
Highly recommended!!
- A M
Patient Testimonial
Dr. Ruggiero truely cares for his pts. He really takes the time to make sure the pt fully understands what is going on while your in the chair.. Dr. Ruggiero is the best Dentist in Columbia and his staff is amazing too!!
- Anonymous
Patient Testimonial
I had put off going to the dentist for too long - it had been about 3 or 4 years since I last saw my old dentist. I finally decided that it was time to take care of myself and went in to see Dr. Nick. He and his staff made me feel very comfortable and best of all they didn't make me feel bad about not having been to a dentist in a while. I'm back on schedule now - thanks Dr. Nick!
- Sam M
Patient Testimonial
Dr Ruggiero has been taking care of my dental needs since he first started practicing in Columbia, and now that he is back with his own practice. I feel confident that I will receive the best possible care that is possible from him and his staff.
- Carol R