Replacement of Metal Fillings with Tooth-Colored Material in San Francisco
Anchor Dental (West Portal)

At Anchor Dental in West Portal, San Francisco, we offer tooth-colored composite fillings to replace outdated metal restorations. These modern materials blend perfectly with your natural teeth, providing strength, durability, and a healthier appearance.

Whether you’re replacing metal fillings for cosmetic reasons or to remove mercury-based materials, our approach focuses on precision, safety, and long-term protection — restoring both the look and function of your smile.

What are “metal fillings”?

For decades, amalgam fillings were the go-to material for repairing cavities. They’re made of a blend of metals: silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They’re strong and long-lasting—but not exactly subtle.
Many people who had dental work in the 1980s, 1990s, and even early 2000s still have them today. They often hold up mechanically but stand out visually, especially under bright light or in photos.

At Anchor Dental, we sometimes call them “gray spots in an otherwise white smile.” Replacing them isn’t only about looks—though that’s the main reason—it can also relate to the way modern tooth-colored materials bond with your natural enamel.

Why patients choose to replace them

Here’s what we hear most often from our San Francisco patients:

• Cosmetic reasons – “I don’t like seeing the dark spots when I laugh.”
• Cracks or wear – Metal expands and contracts with temperature changes, sometimes leading to tiny cracks at the edges.
• Mercury concerns – While the ADA confirms amalgam is safe, many people simply feel better without metal in their mouths.
• Tighter seal – Composite resins chemically bond to enamel and dentin, helping support the remaining tooth structure.

What are tooth-colored fillings made of?

Modern composite resin fillings are made of a mix of durable plastic and finely ground glass particles.

• They can be precisely color-matched to your tooth shade.
• They bond directly to enamel, reinforcing it.
• They don’t expand or contract as much as metal with heat or cold.
• They feel smooth and natural on your tongue.

At Anchor Dental we also offer ceramic (porcelain) restorations for larger cavities or high-wear areas when extra strength is needed.

How we replace old metal fillings at Anchor Dental

Replacing your old metal fillings is typically a simple, one-visit procedure:

1. Evaluation

We’ll check the condition of your existing fillings, see if there’s any leakage, decay, or cracks under them, and take digital X-rays if needed.

2. Safe removal

The old amalgam is gently removed under high-volume suction with protective measures to reduce vapor exposure. (We follow ADA and EPA safety recommendations.)

3. Preparation

Once the cavity area is clean, we lightly etch and prepare the tooth surface so the new resin bonds securely.

4. Placement

We layer the tooth-colored composite, curing (hardening) each layer with a light. Then we shape, polish, and check your bite—so the tooth feels natural again.

5. Polishing

Finally, we polish it smooth and match the sheen to surrounding enamel. You can eat and drink almost right away.

Benefits of replacing old fillings

–A natural look – No visible silver when you talk or laugh.
–Better bonding – Composite bonds to enamel and supports the tooth.
–Less drilling in future – Because bonding is conservative, we preserve more natural structure if future work is needed.
–Mercury-free peace of mind – Many people simply prefer that reassurance.
– Improved comfort – No more “zing” from metal when eating something hot or cold.

One of our West Portal patients said after treatment: “I didn’t realize how self-conscious I was about laughing until I wasn’t anymore.”

Cost & longevity

Composite fillings generally last 7–10 years, sometimes longer with good care. Ceramics can last even longer—up to 15 years.
Costs depend on size and tooth location. Because this can count as “restorative” work, insurance often covers at least part of the replacement, especially if the metal filling is failing or cracked.

We’ll give you a clear estimate before any work starts—no surprises.

Are there risks or downsides?

A few practical notes:

• Composite fillings take slightly longer to place than metal ones, because of the layering and curing process.
• They can stain over many years if you drink a lot of coffee, tea, or red wine (we can polish or refresh them).
• Extremely large metal fillings might require porcelain inlays or crowns for durability.

But for most people, especially in visible areas, the trade-off is worth it: your smile looks natural again, and you forget which tooth ever had a filling.

How to care for your new tooth-colored fillings

• Brush twice daily with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to prevent staining at the edges.
• Avoid biting ice or very hard foods.
• Visit for cleanings every six months; polishing keeps the resin glossy.
• If you grind your teeth at night, consider a night guard to protect the fillings.

Why choose Anchor Dental in San Francisco

Anchor Dental (345 W Portal Ave #210, San Francisco, CA 94127) is led by Dr. Esra Salihoglu Yener, DDS, PhD, one of the most trusted family and cosmetic dentists in the West Portal neighborhood. Our office blends advanced technology with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

We focus on aesthetics that feel natural—not overdone. Replacing metal fillings is one of the simplest ways to refresh your smile without a full cosmetic overhaul. Whether you live nearby in West Portal, the Inner Sunset, or commute from Daly City or the Peninsula, our office makes the process easy and comfortable.

Thinking about upgrading your smile?

If you’re tired of seeing silver every time you smile, schedule a consultation with Anchor Dental. We’ll evaluate your old restorations, show you color-matching options, and explain what works best for your teeth.