At Espire Dental, your health, comfort, and long-term well-being are at the heart of everything we do — and that includes the materials we choose for your dental care. That’s why we do not use mercury fillings (also known as dental amalgam) — and haven’t for years.
In fact, Dr. Brett and Dr. Jen have not placed mercury fillings since dental school. Instead, we focus on safer, modern alternatives that protect both your smile and your overall health.
What Are Mercury Fillings — and Why Don’t We Use Them?
Traditional silver fillings are made from a material called dental amalgam, which contains a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. While once widely used, amalgam has significant drawbacks:
- Mercury content: Though considered stable when mixed, mercury remains a controversial material due to potential health and environmental concerns.
- Thermal expansion: Amalgam fillings expand and contract with temperature changes in your mouth (think hot coffee or cold water). Over time, this can lead to cracks in the tooth, increasing the risk of needing a crown — or worse, tooth removal.
A Healthier, More Natural Option
At Espire Dental, we only use biocompatible, tooth-colored materials for restorations. These composite resins:
- Blend seamlessly with your natural teeth
- Strengthen the tooth structure
- Bond directly to the tooth for better support
- Are free of mercury and safer for both your body and the environment
These fillings not only function like natural teeth but also look like them — helping you maintain a confident, healthy smile.
Your Smile Deserves the Best
If you have older silver fillings and are concerned about their condition, or if you’re looking to restore a tooth with a safer, more natural-looking material, we’re here to help.
Schedule your stress-free consultation today and experience modern dentistry that puts your health and your smile first — every time.