Metal Free Dentistry

What is metal free dentistry?

Metal free dentistry means repairing or rebuilding teeth with tooth-colored materials instead of metal. At Pure Santa Ana Dentist, metal free care mostly means composite resin fillings and all-porcelain crowns. Both are meant to repair damaged teeth while blending in with the rest of your smile.

If you have been searching for a metal crown, a metal filling, or a metal-free option, our office uses porcelain for crowns. Porcelain is a strong material, and it has a more natural look than metal. Metal-based crowns can also wear on the gumline over time, which is one reason we use porcelain.

Composite fillings

Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored fillings used to restore teeth with cavities or damage. During treatment, your dentist removes the decay and a small amount of healthy tooth surface, then places the composite material in layers. Because the filling matches the color of your natural teeth, it is often hard to see once it is finished.

Composite fillings also do not contain metal. If you have older silver fillings, they can often be removed and replaced with a tooth-colored composite, so your smile looks more natural.

Porcelain crowns

A crown covers a tooth that needs more protection than a filling can provide. Our porcelain crowns are carefully built and layered to look like natural tooth enamel. Many patients tell us that friends and family cannot easily tell their crowns from their own teeth.

Porcelain veneers and tooth-colored restorations

We also offer porcelain veneers, Lumineers, and other tooth-colored restorations for patients who want to improve the color or shape of their teeth. Your dentist can explain which option fits your teeth and goals.

Who is metal free dentistry for?

Metal free treatment can help patients who have a new cavity, a cracked or worn tooth, or an old metal filling they want to replace. Many patients also choose tooth-colored materials because they want a natural look or prefer to avoid metal in their mouths.

Not every tooth is the same. Your dentist will look at the size of the problem, where it is in your mouth, and how your teeth bite together before recommending a material. Some teeth may need a filling, while others may need a crown.

What to expect at your visit

Most metal free treatment follows the same general steps:

• Exam and imaging. Your dentist checks your teeth and gums and reviews your records. Our office uses high-resolution digital x-rays, which can reduce radiation compared with traditional film.
• Treatment plan. Your dentist explains your options, the materials, and the expected results, and answers your questions.
• Numbing and preparation. The area is numbed for comfort. Decay or damaged tooth structure is removed, and the tooth is prepared for the filling or crown.
• Restoration. The tooth-colored filling or porcelain crown is placed and shaped so your bite feels comfortable.
• Follow-up. Your dentist checks the fit and bite before you leave or at a later visit, depending on the treatment.

Our office also uses digital scanning tools, including an Itero scanner, to record the shape of your teeth. Your dentist will tell you which tools are used for your treatment.

What does metal free dentistry cost?

The cost of metal free treatment depends on the tooth, the material, and how much work is needed. A small filling and a full crown are not priced the same way. Your dentist or our team can give you a cost estimate after your exam.

We honor all true dental insurance plans, including PPO and indemnity plans, as well as Medi-Cal, Denti-Cal, Smile California, and CalOptima dental plans. We do a complimentary insurance eligibility check before your visit so you know what to expect.

If you do not have insurance or your plan does not cover the full cost, we have finance plans available and offer 0% financing options. Our team can explain the payment choices during your visit.

We also have a current new patient special: a cleaning exam and x-rays for $59. This offer cannot be combined with other offers or reduced-fee plans, and it is for new patients only. We also offer free second opinions.

Aftercare for metal free fillings and crowns

After a composite filling, your tooth may feel sensitive to hot or cold for a short time. This is common, and your dentist will tell you what to watch for. Avoid chewing hard foods on a new filling until your dentist says it is ready.

Crowns and fillings last longer with good daily care. Brush twice a day, floss, and keep your regular checkups and cleanings. Call our office if a filling feels rough, a crown feels loose, or your bite feels uneven.

Why patients choose Pure Santa Ana Dentist

Pure Santa Ana Dentist is a family run practice in Santa Ana, CA. Our dentists, Dr. Khaef, Dr. Steven Vu, and Dr. Nguyen, lead a team that focuses on comfortable visits and clear communication.

Our office uses electronic records and technology including a Cerec machine, a CT scan, a diode laser, and an Itero scanner. We are open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. We offer same-day appointments when possible, and if you have a dental emergency such as a toothache or broken tooth, we will try to see you the same day during office hours. Our office can often be reached after hours as well.

How do I book a metal free dentistry appointment?

To schedule your visit, call us at 714-705-6852 or book online. Our office is located at 1125 17th St Suite E227, Santa Ana, CA 92701. Our team can check your insurance, answer questions about metal free options, and help you choose a time that works for you.