Chicago Mercury-Free Dentist

Traditional silver amalgam fillings are made up of approximately 50% mercury. Many feel that having mercury in the mouth presents serious health concerns.

As a mercury-free dentist, we offer white composite fillings. In fact, we haven't used amalgam to fill cavities in over 25 years.

Advantages of White Composite

There are many advantages of mercury-free fillings. When bonded to the tooth they reinforce it structurally. This means that the tooth will be more fracture resistant and they look much nicer too. Traditional amalgam fillings can corrode over time. Sometimes they begin to crack which means that they are at risk for leaking. In the image to the right, you'll begin to see how a gap has formed between the tooth and the amalgam.

White fillings require less tooth drilling since amalgam must have a certain thickness in order to be strong enough. No healthy part of the tooth will be drilled away once the decay has been removed when placing composite. The bonding technology strengthens the overall tooth structure, while amalgam can weaken it.

Some patients have complained of sensitivity issues from amalgam fillings since the metal is a natural conductor. Sensitivity to heat and cold is not an issue with white composite fillings.

If you have old amalgam fillings, we recommend having them replaced. Give us a call at (312) 266-6480 or visit our make an appointment page today.