Healthy Fillings with a Seamless Smile

Metal-Free Fillings in Scottsdale

Protect your teeth without metal. Our metal-Free Fillings are strong, discreet, and designed for long-term comfort.


Call (480) 608-9412 to Get Started.

Want safer, more natural fillings? Metal-Free Fillings restore your tooth while blending seamlessly with your smile.

no prep veneers for scottsdale arizona

Metal-Free Fillings in Scottsdale

The materials used in dentistry have improved throughout history, thanks to research, technology, and modern discoveries. One of the most prominent changes over the past fifty years in dentistry is the material used in fillings. Traditionally, metal was used (dental amalgam). You may have heard them referred to as “silver fillings.” The material was a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. This substance has been used in dentistry for more than 150 years because it’s durable, cost-effective, and long-lasting. Dentists still use metal (amalgam) fillings, but their use has declined significantly over recent years.

We at Serenity Smiles moved away from metal fillings and now use a durable ceramic that is carefully shaded to match the natural color of your tooth. Unlike traditional silver (amalgam) fillings, these restorations contain no mercury or metal and blend seamlessly with your smile. The composite ceramic material bonds directly to the tooth, allowing us to preserve more of your natural tooth structure while restoring strength and function. Today’s metal-free fillings are stronger and more durable than ever before.

Why the Shift Away from Metal

There are a few key reasons dentists are moving toward metal-free (composite or ceramic) fillings:

  • Appearance: Tooth-colored materials blend with natural teeth.

  • Patient preference: Many patients request metal-free options.

  • Material advancements: Modern composites are stronger and more versatile.

  • Regulatory considerations: Agencies like the FDA advise caution in certain populations (e.g., young children, pregnant women) and encourage discussing non-amalgam options if appropriate. (“The majority of evidence shows exposure to mercury from dental amalgam does not lead to negative health effects in the general population. Exposure to mercury may pose a greater health risk in certain groups of people, who may be more susceptible to potential adverse effects generally associated with mercury.”)FDA’s website
  • Less Sensitivity to Temperature: Metal expands and contracts with hot and cold foods, which can sometimes contribute to tooth sensitivity or cracks over time. Metal-free materials reduce this risk.

  • More Precision and Protection: Because they bond to the tooth, metal-free fillings allow for smaller, more precise restorations that protect your natural tooth.

Can Old Metal Fillings Be Replaced with Metal-Free Ones?

Yes, metal fillings can often be safely removed and replaced with metal-free materials. Many patients choose to replace older silver fillings because they are worn, cracked, or simply for aesthetic reasons.

Before replacing a filling, Dr. Waters will evaluate the condition of the existing filling, the health of the surrounding teeth, and whether replacement is beneficial or necessary. If replacement is recommended, the metal filling is carefully removed and replaced with a tooth-colored composite that restores strength, function, and appearance. For many patients, the process is quick, straightforward, and completed in a single visit.

If you have questions about metal-free fillings or want to explore whether replacing old metal fillings is right for you, our dental team is happy to help. We’re committed to providing modern, comfortable, and personalized care to keep your smile healthy and confident. Book a consultation today!

Schedule a Consultation for No Prep Veneers in Scottsdale

If you are considering how dental veneers could improve your smile, we would love to talk to you about your needs and answer all of your questions! Dr. Justin Waters is an experienced cosmetic dentist who serves patients in Scottsdale and surrounding areas with superior results and stunning smile makeovers.

We also offer other aesthetic smile solutions, so if no prep veneers aren’t the best choice, we have plenty of other cosmetic options to recommend!

Please call our dentist office at (480) 608-9412 to arrange your consultation for no prep veneers in Scottsdale. We look forward to seeing your best smile!