How to Fix Metal on your Front Teeth

Metal on your front teeth, generally in the form of amalgam fillings, can attract unwanted attention. Generally speaking, metal is better suited for areas of the mouth that are hidden, such as molars in the back of your mouth. White fillings, known as composite fillings, match the color of your teeth. Per the American Dental Association, composite fillings are used to increase cosmetic appearance. If done correctly, the composite filling should match your teeth and be virtually invisible. Fixing metal on your front teeth will require a dentist to remove the metal and replace it with non-metallic materials. In the world of dentistry, this is an easy and common procedure.

Instructions

Instructions

• 1

  If you have dental insurance, contact your insurance company. If there is no medical reason for fixing the metal on your front teeth, most insurance companies will not pay for it unless you have coverage for cosmetic or restorative dentistry. Discuss your benefits with a representative at the insurance company.

• 2

  Make an appointment with a dentist. If you have a regular dentist, make the appointment with him. Even if this may be considered cosmetic dentistry, you do not need to see a dentist that specializes in that form of dentistry.

• 3

  Obtain a full mouth examination, including X-rays, at your dental appointment. The X-rays are integral and part of a standard examination. They will show the condition of your teeth, which is important when determining if they are in good enough condition for filling replacement.

• 4

  Obtain the treatment plan from your dentist. This will list exactly what will need to be done to fix the metal on your front teeth. Ideally, your dentist will be able to replace the metal fillings with tooth-colored ones. The treatment plan will cover the exact procedures that will need to be done, as well as the cost. At that time, the dentist will discuss how many appointments will be necessary to complete the procedures

• 5

  Go to your dental appointments. The dentist will replace the metal fillings on your front teeth with composite fillings at that time. If she deems another procedure necessary, obtain the recommended procedure instead.