How often should I have my heat pump serviced?

You should have your heat pump serviced at least once a year. If you use your heat pump for heating and cooling, you should service it twice annually, in the fall and the spring.

What is the life span of a heat pump?

The average life span of a heat pump is 10-15 years. Because heat pumps run year-round to heat and cool your home, they don’t always last as long as a typical heating or cooling system. However, you can extend the life span by ensuring that your unit is routinely maintained by an HVAC professional.

Embark on a Dental Adventure with Us!

Why Choose Metal-Free Fillings for a Healthier Smile

When it comes to dental restoration, making an informed choice is crucial for maintaining both the aesthetics and health of your smile. Metal-free fillings have become increasingly popular as a safer and more attractive alternative to traditional metal fillings. These modern fillings not only enhance the appearance of your teeth but also offer various health and functional benefits. In this blog, we’ll delve into why you should consider metal-free fillings and how they can contribute to a healthier smile.

Aesthetic Appeal with Tooth-Colored Fillings

One of the most significant advantages of metal-free fillings is their ability to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Unlike metal fillings, which are often conspicuous and can affect the overall look of your smile, tooth-colored fillings are designed to match the exact shade of your teeth. This natural appearance makes them an ideal choice for visible areas of your mouth, ensuring that your dental restoration is virtually undetectable. Whether you’re smiling, talking, or eating, you can do so with confidence, knowing that your fillings are invisible to the naked eye.

Healthier Alternative with Mercury-Free Fillings

Traditional metal fillings, commonly known as amalgam fillings, contain a mixture of metals, including mercury. The presence of mercury in these fillings has been a subject of concern for many years due to potential health risks. Metal-free fillings, on the other hand, are made from composite fillings, which are mercury-free. This makes them a safer option for your overall health, especially if you are concerned about mercury exposure. Additionally, metal-free fillings are less likely to cause allergic reactions, making them suitable for patients with sensitivities to metal.

Durable & Strong Dental Restoration

Metal-free fillings are not only visually appealing but also highly durable. The composite fillings used in these restorations are designed to bond directly with the tooth structure, which enhances the tooth’s overall strength. This bonding process helps to prevent further decay and reduces the likelihood of the filling becoming loose or falling out over time. By choosing metal-free fillings, you are opting for a long-lasting solution that provides both protection and durability.

Minimal Invasion with Less Drilling

When it comes to dental procedures, preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible is always a priority. Metal-free fillings allow for a more conservative approach, as they require less drilling compared to metal fillings. The biocompatible dental materials used in these fillings bond directly to the tooth, allowing your dentist to remove only the decayed portion of the tooth. This minimally invasive approach helps to preserve the strength and integrity of your natural tooth structure, leading to a more favorable long-term outcome.

Temperature Stability & Comfort

Metal fillings are notorious for their sensitivity to temperature changes. They tend to expand and contract with fluctuations in temperature, which can lead to discomfort, tooth sensitivity, and even cracks in the tooth. In contrast, metal-free fillings remain stable under temperature changes, providing a more comfortable experience when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages. This temperature stability helps protect your teeth from further damage and ensures that your fillings remain securely in place.

Biocompatible Dental Materials for Sensitive Patients

For patients with allergies or sensitivities to metals, metal-free fillings offer a welcome alternative. The biocompatible dental materials used in these fillings are less likely to cause allergic reactions or irritation, making them a safer choice for those with specific health concerns. Additionally, these materials are more compatible with the body’s natural tissues, reducing the risk of adverse reactions and promoting better overall oral health.

Long-Lasting and Easy to Repair

While all dental restorations have a finite lifespan, metal-free fillings are known for their durability and ease of repair. Should a composite filling become damaged or worn over time, your dentist can quickly and easily repair it by adding more composite material. This repair process is straightforward and does not typically require the removal of the entire filling. In contrast, repairing a metal filling often involves removing the old filling entirely, which may require additional drilling and can further weaken the tooth.

Creates a Tight Seal Against Bacteria

One of the key benefits of metal-free fillings is their ability to create a tight seal with the tooth. This seal helps to protect the tooth from further decay by preventing bacteria from entering the space between the filling and the tooth. Traditional metal fillings do not bond with the tooth in the same way, leaving the tooth more vulnerable to bacterial invasion and subsequent decay. By choosing metal-free fillings, you are taking a proactive step in safeguarding your oral health against future cavities.

Eco-Friendly and Safe for the Environment

As more individuals become conscious of their environmental impact, the demand for eco-friendly dental materials has grown. Metal-free fillings are often considered more environmentally friendly than their metal counterparts because they do not contain harmful substances like mercury. By opting for metal-free fillings, you are not only making a healthier choice for yourself but also contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to dental care.

FAQs about Metal-Free Fillings

Q: Are metal-free fillings as durable as metal fillings?

A: Yes, metal-free fillings are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care. The composite fillings bond with the tooth structure, providing additional strength and reducing the risk of the filling becoming loose or falling out.

Q: Do metal-free fillings cost more than metal fillings?

A: The cost of metal-free fillings can vary depending on the material and the dentist’s fees. However, the health and aesthetic benefits often outweigh the cost difference, making them a worthwhile investment in your oral health.

Q: Can metal-free fillings be used for all types of cavities?

A: Yes, metal-free fillings are versatile and can be used for various types of cavities, from small to large, in different areas of the mouth. They are especially beneficial for visible areas where aesthetics are a concern.

Embrace a Healthier Smile with Metal-Free Fillings

Choosing metal-free fillings is a smart decision for anyone looking to enhance the appearance and health of their smile. These fillings offer numerous benefits, from their natural look and durability to their health and environmental advantages. Whether you’re concerned about the aesthetics of your dental restoration, potential health risks associated with metal fillings, or simply want a more biocompatible solution, metal-free fillings provide a superior alternative. Talk to your dentist today to find out if metal-free fillings are the right choice for your dental care needs.

What To Expect

Discover The Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Difference

Fun Dental Services

We believe in making dental care a delightful experience for kids. Our range of services is specifically designed to cater to their unique needs, ensuring that each visit is beneficial and enjoyable.

Focus on Education

Beyond the chair, we emphasize the importance of good dental health habits. Our team takes the time to educate children about proper oral hygiene practices, setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Patient-Centered Care

Building strong relationships with our young patients is at the heart of our approach. We create a welcoming and comforting atmosphere, ensuring every child feels safe and relaxed during their visit.

Pediatric & Orthodontic Expertise

Our highly specialized doctors are experts in both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. From your child's first dental checkup to addressing adolescent dental needs, we provide the highest quality of care every step of the way.

Comprehensive Services

Whether it's orthodontic consultations, extractions, metal-free fillings, fluoride treatments, digital X-rays, dental sealants, or emergency dental services, we offer a comprehensive range of dental care under one roof.

Safe and Comfortable

We prioritize your child's comfort and safety. Our practice employs advanced techniques, including nitrous oxide and general anesthesia when necessary, to ensure a stress-free and painless experience for your little one.

Fun Dental Services

We believe in making dental care a delightful experience for kids. Our range of services is specifically designed to cater to their unique needs, ensuring that each visit is beneficial and enjoyable.

Focus on Education

Patient-Centered Care

Building strong relationships with our young patients is at the heart of our approach. We create a welcoming and comforting atmosphere, ensuring every child feels safe and relaxed during their visit.

Pediatric & Orthodontic Expertise

Comprehensive Services

Safe and Comfortable

About Us

Testimonials

Read Our Patient's Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Experiences.

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This office is friendly, professional, clean, and FUN! My daughter was terrified & crying when i told her we had to go to the dentist.. afterwards, she was giggling and asking to go back.My daughter is 10, and my son is a 10 month old infant,…

Jessica Morrell

What a wonderful experience for my girls here at pediatric dentistry! From the welcome from the front desk to the excellent care and patient knowledge! Dr Mari and her assistant really did a fantastic job and made my girls comfortable and happy! Came and left with…

Daren Rockwood

The atmosphere is very comforting and calming at Pediatric Dentistry and the staff was very professional.

Brad Curry

The staff are all very friendly and extremely accomodating at Pediatric Dentistry!

Traci Conti

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