Metal Free Dentistry
Metal-free restorations are crowns, bridges, and fillings that do not contain any metal. Metal-free crowns and bridges are usually made out of dental porcelain (which is otherwise known as dental ceramic). Metal-free fillings are made out of a flexible resin that contains tiny particles of glass and plastic.
Metal-free restorations can be used for all of the same purposes as their traditional metal counterparts. For example, they are excellent for stopping dental decay, protecting damaged or weak teeth, and replacing lost teeth. In some cases, metal-free restorations are used solely to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile.
How Do Metal-Free Restorations Work?
To place a metal-free restoration, a dentist must select the best color for the restoration and then prepare the tooth that will receive it. This preparation often involves removing areas of decay and/or shaping a tooth so that the restoration will not look bulky or unnatural. If you are going to receive a crown or bridge, our team will need to take some impressions of your teeth. Your dentist will send those impressions, along with detailed design notes, to the laboratory that will create your restoration. Once your restoration is ready, your dentist will verify that its color, shape, and size are perfect before they permanently place it in our mouth.
Cost of Metal-Free Restorations
The cost of metal-free restorations is in the same ballpark as the cost of metal restorations. Our team will be happy to give you an estimate for the cost of your procedure when you visit us for a consultation. The price of your restoration will depend on the material used to make it and the extent of the necessary treatment. In most cases, dental insurance is willing to cover a significant portion of the cost of metal-free restorations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Metal-free dentistry uses tooth-colored materials - ceramic, zirconia, composite resin - instead of silver amalgam or metal alloys for fillings, crowns, bridges, and implant components. It eliminates concerns about mercury exposure, dark metallic appearance, and galvanic sensitivity some patients experience with metal restorations.
Yes. Modern zirconia (zirconium oxide) is one of the strongest dental ceramics available - strong enough for back molar crowns that endure heavy bite forces. High-translucency zirconia also offers excellent aesthetics for front teeth, making it suitable for virtually any crown location.
When done following SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) protocols - including isolation, sectioning, and suction - amalgam removal is considered safe. Oxford Smiles uses protective measures during amalgam removal. Elective removal should be discussed with Dr. Mehta on a case-by-case basis.
Zirconia (ceramic) implants are a metal-free alternative to titanium implants, preferred by patients with metal sensitivities or those seeking a biocompatible, tooth-colored implant body that will not show through thin gum tissue. Ask Dr. Mehta if zirconia implants are appropriate for your case.
Ceramic and zirconia materials typically cost more than amalgam or metal-based alternatives. However, costs have decreased significantly as the technology has matured. Oxford Smiles will provide a clear cost comparison so you can make an informed choice aligned with your priorities and budget.
Flexible Financing & Insurance options
We strive to make dental care affordable and accessible for all our patients. That's why we accept most major insurances, and will work with you to help you understand your plan and maximize your benefits. If you have questions about insurance, or anything at all, give us a call to speak with one of our friendly insurance experts. Don't see your insurance listed? Give us a call on (508) 290-8714, and we'll walk you through all your options!
No Insurance? No Problem.
Flexible financing & membership plans available
We offer Quality Membership Plans along with flexible financing options through LendingClub, Sunbit, and CareCredit. Quality dental care is an investment in your health and happiness and we believe the cost of treatment should never stand in the way of your ideal smile. That's why we partner with trusted healthcare lenders, allowing you to create personalized payment plans that fit your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Dr. Aditya Mehta – Compassionate Cosmetic & General Dentist
Dr. Mehta, inspired by a family legacy of 15 doctors, brings a deep-rooted passion for healthcare to his work at Oxford Smiles in Marlborough. With a commitment to excellence, he combines advanced dentistry with a warm, personalized approach to ensure every patient feels valued and cared for.
He specializes in cosmetic and general dentistry. Dr. Mehta focuses on creating natural-looking smiles, offering comfortable, anxiety-free visits, and staying at the forefront of dental innovation through continuous education. Trusted for both his gentle care and expertise, Dr. Mehta helps patients achieve lasting oral health with a strong emphasis on transparency and trust.
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We take great pride in extending our exceptional care to patients not only within Marlborough but also from diverse locations, ensuring that our commitment to service reaches beyond boundaries.
One Location, Countless Smiles
We take great pride in extending our exceptional care to patients not only
within Marlborough
but also from diverse locations, ensuring that our
commitment to service reaches beyond boundaries.
- Marlborough
- Auburn
- Maynard
- Bolton
- Hudson
- Framingham
- Westborough
- Shrewsbury
- Northborough
- Southborough
- Hopkinton
- Ashland