sanitary amalgam removal | Naperville Cosmetic Dentistry

Can I Lie About an Allergy?

My dentist insists that my silver fillings are fine and that all the fuss over them is overblown. I want to switch them out for the white ones. He’s so resistant that I’m frustrated. What if I just told him I’ve developed an allergy to the materials? Would he be able to tell I’m lying? Miranda Dear Miranda, I’m not going to recommend this idea for three reasons. First, it’s […]

Problem with Amalgam Fillings

I had to get a dental filling. It was my first one. I’ve been with the same dentist for years, since I was a child actually. He still does those amalgam fillings. I’d asked for a white filling, but he said they’re not a good idea on back teeth. I’m wondering if I could be allergic to the filling. Ever since I had the filling placed, my cheek has been […]

Do I Need a Cosmetic Dentist for White Fillings?

I go to a decent family dentist. However, he’s more of a bread and butter type practice—function over form. I’ve been considering getting rid of my silver fillings for the mercury-free white fillings. My dentist says they’re perfectly safe, but I have my doubts. Even if I’m wrong, it will give me peace of mind to get rid of them. Will I need to switch to a cosmetic dentist for […]

Do Amalgam Fillings Stain Teeth?

I want to remove a couple of amalgam fillings on my back teeth but my dentist insists it won’t help their appearance to look white because amalgam stains teeth. If that’s true, is there any way to make them look more attractive? Hardly anyone has a smile filled with silver anymore and I feel like it makes me look bad. I have a big smile and you can see my […]

Allergic to Fillings

I had my first filling a few months ago. My insurance only covered silver fillings so I went ahead and got those. Ever since, I haven’t felt right and my tongue has been itchy. I think I’m allergic to the filling. Have you heard of this? My dentist doesn’t think that’s the problem. Catie Dear Catie, If you’ve eliminated other possibilities then it could very well be your fillings. Some […]

Is a Mercury-free Dentist Absolutely Necessary to Remove One Filling?

I keep reading that it’s important to replace your old silver fillings, which are loaded with mercury, with a white filling. I also hear you need to use a mercury-free dentist to do it. Is that really necessary? I only have one filling. I’ve had it for about 2o years. Cyndy L. – Brooklyn Cyndy, There is some controversy surrounding the whole amalgam versus composite fillings. Here’s the problem. The […]

My new dentist has me terrified of my fillings

I moved to a new city. I just saw my shiny new dentist for the first time. He did my exam and expressed concern about my fillings. I have had them for years. I also grind my teeth. He said the combination of my old fillings with teeth grinding is putting mercury into my system. How is that possible? Chloe P. – Pennsylvania Chloe, I’m guessing, based on what you’re […]