Silver colored fillings have been used in dentistry for well over a century, and many people still have them sitting quietly in their back teeth from years ago. Over time, though, these fillings can wear down, crack, or simply become something a patient would rather not have in their mouth anymore, whether the concern is cosmetic, structural, or related to the mercury content inside the filling material itself. For some people, the decision to replace an old filling comes after noticing a change in how a tooth looks or feels, while for others it comes from wanting a smile that looks fully natural.
At Maison Dental Studio, we offer amalgam removal for patients in Youngsville who are ready to replace old silver fillings with a more modern restorative dentistry option. Whether a filling has cracked, darkened the surrounding tooth, or a patient simply wants a smile without any visible metal, our team walks through the process carefully so every patient understands exactly what to expect before treatment begins. We take time during your visit to answer questions and explain the reasoning behind our recommendations, rather than rushing straight into treatment.
Dental amalgam is made up of a mix of metals, roughly half of which is mercury, combined with silver, tin, and copper. According to the FDA, amalgam fillings can release small amounts of mercury vapor over time, and the agency has advised that certain groups, including pregnant patients, nursing mothers, young children, and people with kidney or neurological conditions, may want to avoid amalgam when other options are available. Beyond that consideration, many patients simply want a filling that blends in with their natural tooth color instead of a dark metallic patch that shows when they laugh or smile.
Age is another common factor. Amalgam fillings can expand and contract with temperature changes over the years, which sometimes leads to small cracks in the filling or in the surrounding tooth structure. When a filling reaches this point, replacing it can help prevent further damage and protect the health of the tooth underneath. In some cases, a filling that once fit tightly against the tooth begins to pull away slightly, creating a gap where bacteria can collect and lead to new decay beneath the old restoration.
Our practice was built around a technology-forward approach to dentistry, and that carries directly into how we handle amalgam removal. We use modern equipment to remove old filling material with as little disruption to the healthy tooth structure as possible, and we walk patients through each step so nothing feels like a surprise.
Before removal begins, one of our doctors will examine the tooth to confirm the filling needs to be replaced and to check for any decay that may have developed underneath it. The old amalgam is then carefully removed, and the area is cleaned and prepared for a new restoration. For patients who feel anxious about dental visits in general, we also offer sedation dentistry so the appointment feels as relaxed as possible from beginning to end.
A few signs it may be time to talk with us about replacing an old filling include the following.
If any of these sound familiar, you should have one of our doctors take a look during your next visit so we can talk through your options together.
Once the amalgam is removed, we fill the space with a tooth colored material suited to the location and size of the restoration. For many patients, this means a composite filling, while others benefit from a more durable ceramic option, particularly for larger restorations in the back teeth. If a tooth needs more extensive support, our team can also discuss whether a dental crown makes more sense than a standard filling. Every recommendation is based on the specific tooth, its history, and what will hold up best over time.
| Composite Filling | Ceramic Filling | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Smaller restorations | Larger back-tooth restorations |
| Appearance | Natural tooth-colored match | Natural tooth-colored match |
| Durability | Strong for most teeth | Highly durable under chewing pressure |
| When we recommend it | Most patients replacing amalgam | High-load areas or larger spaces |
Patients typically notice an immediate difference in how their smile looks, and most return to normal eating and drinking within a short period after the appointment. Some patients experience mild sensitivity in the treated tooth for a day or two, which is a normal part of the healing process and usually fades on its own. We always send patients home with clear instructions so they know what to expect during recovery and when to reach out if anything feels off.
Doctors Kaleb Murray and Sam Mullen both completed advanced education in general dentistry with additional training in implant surgery and IV sedation, and both are fellows of the International College of Oral Implantology. That same commitment to continuing education shapes how we handle every part of restorative care, including amalgam removal, allowing our patients in Youngsville to feel confident they are getting treatment grounded in current dental knowledge rather than guesswork. Our doctors take a collaborative approach to treatment planning, drawing on training across multiple areas of dentistry so each recommendation reflects a full picture of your oral health rather than a single narrow perspective.
If you have an older silver filling you would like replaced, our team is ready to help you learn about your options and build a plan around your specific tooth and goals. You can reach our Youngsville office by phone or request an appointment through our website, and we will help you find a time that works for your schedule.
Experience the difference that modern technology and compassionate care can make in your dental health journey. Our team is ready to provide you with exceptional treatment in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Whether you need routine preventive care, cosmetic enhancements, or advanced restorative procedures, we’re here to help you achieve optimal oral health. Schedule your appointment today and discover why families throughout Youngsville choose Maison Dental Studio for their dental care needs. We accept most major insurance plans, offer flexible financing options, and feature our in-house membership plan to make quality dental care accessible for everyone.
Your Care Team
When you visit Maison Dental Studio, your care is in the hands of two fellowship-trained dentists who built this practice to bring a genuinely different dental experience to Youngsville families.
DDS, FICOI | Youngsville, LA
Dr. Murray earned his DDS at LSU School of Dentistry and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the Foundry Dental Center in Alabama, with focused training in implant surgery and IV sedation. As a Fellow of the International College of Oral Implantology, he cofounded Maison Dental Studio with a commitment to showing every patient their X-rays on screen and walking them through each decision together.
DDS, FICOI | Youngsville, LA
Dr. Mullen trained at LSU School of Dentistry and the Foundry Dental Center, where he developed expertise in implant surgery, IV sedation, and cosmetic dentistry. He believes the best treatment plans come from honest conversations and collaborative decisions, showing patients exactly what he sees so they always feel confident and in control of their care.
LSU School of DentistryBoth doctors, Class of 2022
FICOI FellowsIntl. College of Oral Implantology
IV Sedation CertifiedAEGD residency trained
Implant Surgery SpecialistsSingles, full arch & more
Invisalign ProvidersClear aligner orthodontics
Financial Options
Quality dental care should be within reach for every Youngsville family. We work with major insurance carriers and offer multiple financing paths so cost is never a barrier to your best smile.
We are in-network with Delta Dental and Zelis, an umbrella network that includes many major plans. We are happy to work with your benefits coordinator to maximize your coverage before your visit.
We partner with Cherry, CareCredit, Sunbit, and Proceed Finance so you can start treatment right away and pay over time. Apply in minutes with same-day decisions on most plans.
No insurance? No problem. Our in-house membership plan gives uninsured patients access to regular, affordable care. We also offer in-house payment plans for qualifying fixed cases.
Cherry • CareCredit • Sunbit • Proceed Finance • HSA / FSA • Checks Accepted • Apple Pay
Questions about your coverage? Call us at (337) 483-1200 and we are happy to verify your benefits before your appointment.
PATIENT STORIES
We built Maison Dental Studio on patient trust. Every appointment is an opportunity to show Youngsville families what modern dental care can truly feel like.
Before & After
From single implants to complete smile transformations, see the real results our Youngsville patients have achieved. Every smile tells a story of restored confidence and lasting health.
Find Us
From scheduled appointments to same-day emergencies, Maison Dental Studio is ready for Youngsville and the surrounding Acadiana community.
⏰ Office Hours
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
⚠ Dental Emergencies
You can reach our emergency line any time of day or night and our team will be notified immediately for serious emergencies. We reserve dedicated time each day for emergency visits, whether you are a current patient or new to our practice. Dental emergencies do not wait, and neither do we.
Emergency Line (24/7)(337) 555-0125
Main Office(337) 483-1200
Fully Accessible
Wheelchair ramp, accessible parking, and an accessible front desk
Free Parking
Free on-site lot plus free street parking in the rear
All Payments Welcome
Cards, checks, Apple Pay, and all major financing accepted
Walk-ins Welcome
Appointment preferred but walk-ins accepted as schedule allows
Se Habla Español
Spanish-speaking staff available to assist patients
Same-Day Appointments
Emergency and urgent slots reserved daily for new and existing patients
Comfort Amenities
Overhead TVs, noise-canceling headphones, and light-blocking glasses
Easy to Find
3204 E Milton Ave Suite 300, near the Youngsville Sports Complex
READY TO GET STARTED?
There is no better time to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Whether you need a routine cleaning, are exploring implant options, or want to transform your smile, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
When you walk into Maison Dental Studio, you will experience what modern, patient-centered dental care truly looks like, comfortable, educational, and built around you.