A common misconception is that a silver amalgam filling will last forever. Amalgam fillings are very durable, but eventually they will fail and need to be replaced. We consider a filling to be failing when it no longer seals out bacteria and allows them to infect the inner layers of the tooth.
Replacing a failing amalgam filling with a new restoration can prevent more decay from developing and keep your mouth healthy.
Many conditions in the mouth can cause an amalgam filling to fail, including-
Fillings have to endure an incredible amount of biting force. Over time, they become worn and turn black, and their edges wear away.
Amalgam fillings swell when they absorb the natural moisture in your mouth. This expansion can create a wedging effect in the tooth, which can fracture or break off tooth structure. The expansion can also lift the surface of the filling slightly, creating a gap where the filling meets the tooth, and allowing bacteria into the tooth.
Temperature changes in the mouth can make the amalgam expand and contract, and this creates many small gaps or micro-fractures in the tooth or filling.
When we discover a failing amalgam filling, it's important to replace it with another restoration as soon as possible to protect your tooth. There are several types of restorations, including fillings, inlays, onlays and crowns, and these can be fabricated from a variety of different dental materials. After doing a thorough exam, we'll recommend the best restoration for your situation.
Dr. Rehder and the entire staff are friendly and compassionate. They accommodate my needs as a patient and treat me as a personal friend. Professionally, they provide the utmost care and advice, the patient always comes first. I can’t say enough positive comments about this practice.
~Review by Eileen S.
Dr. Rehder is very professional, yet not too serious as he is doing your teeth. He makes it relaxing and is able to keep your mind away from his work (I have never liked going to the dentist, but Dr. Rehder makes the experience as close to pleasant as a dentist visit can be).
~Review by Mary Ellen M.
Thank you Dr. Rehder and Christine for the "always exciting" and "never a dull moment" orthodontist appointment. See you in two weeks to do it all over again. Ok maybe-not ALL over again.
~Review by Elena C.
I had a great experience with Dr. Rehder. He is very informative and professional. All of the staff were so nice and helpful. My overall experience was one of the best I had with a dental office. I would definitely recommend people to come here.
~Review by Paulina C.
Professional staff. Makes you feel at ease, would highly recommend.
~Review by Diane S.
Always wonderful visits at Pinefield Dental. I've been a patient since the very early 90s. The staff is my extended family & takes care of my teeth with the utmost professionalism. This is my dental home.
~Review by Kenneth C.
The doctor and staff were wonderful. My experience is always great. The staff is very caring and always professional. The hours are very convenient as well. They will be able to accommodate anyone's schedule.
~Review by Amanda C.
Richard F. Gittleson, DDS Reviews No one likes/enjoys going to the dentist, but our dentist (Dr. Gittleson) and his staff are so pleasant they help relieve a patient fears.
~Review by Patricia L.
Highly recommended, I’ve been a patient since 1983.
~Review by Charles G.
Excellent.
~Review by Dom J.
