Green Dentistry at Dr. Steve Sato’s Office
Environmentally Conscious Dental Care for Health-Minded Patients
At Dr. Steve Sato’s Office, we believe your dental health and the health of our planet are closely connected. Our commitment to green dentistry means we prioritize materials and protocols that are safer for you, your family, and the environment. Serving patients from Kettering, Oakwood, Centerville, and throughout the Dayton area, we’re proud to offer biocompatible, eco-conscious dental solutions.
BPA-Free Fillings: Safe Dental Restorations for Your Family
Understanding BPA Concerns in Traditional Dental Materials
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical compound found in many plastics, including some traditional dental materials. Research has raised concerns about BPA exposure, especially in children and pregnant women. Potential risks include:
- Hormonal disruption
- Effects on brain and behavioral development
- Uncertainty around long-term cumulative exposure
At Dr. Steve Sato’s Office, we provide BPA-free alternatives for patients seeking peace of mind and safer dental options.
Our BPA-Free Filling Options
We offer a variety of BPA-free filling materials that balance safety, durability, and aesthetics:
1. BPA-Free Composite Resins
These advanced materials are:
- Free from BPA and its derivatives
- Natural in appearance, blending seamlessly with your teeth
- Durable and wear-resistant
- Minimally invasive, preserving more healthy tooth structure
- Strongly bonded to the tooth for longevity
2. Ceramic Inlays and Onlays
Ideal for larger restorations:
- BPA-free and metal-free
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Custom-crafted for a natural look
- Biocompatible with the body
3. Glass Ionomer Fillings
Often used in pediatric or specific cases:
- Naturally BPA-free
- Release fluoride to help prevent future decay
- Suitable for young patients or conservative treatments
Our Approach to Amalgam (Mercury) Fillings
While our practice strongly supports biocompatible materials, a small percentage of amalgam (silver) fillings are still placed in limited cases, such as patient request, insurance constraints, or when Dr. Sato determines it’s the most appropriate choice based on tooth structure. Though rare, amalgam use remains an available option to ensure comprehensive care.
More frequently, we safely remove existing mercury-containing fillings, using high-volume suction and proper protocols to minimize exposure to particles and vapors. Many of our patients prefer composite materials, and we’re continuously transitioning toward cleaner, more environmentally conscious options while still offering both filling types.
The Green Dentistry Difference
Health Benefits- Reduced exposure to potentially harmful chemicals
- Materials that work in harmony with your body
- Extra reassurance for parents and health-conscious patients
- Safer handling of dental waste
- Reduced chemical impact on water systems
- Support for more sustainable dentistry
- Natural-looking, tooth-colored restorations
- No visible dark metal in your smile
- Seamless integration with your natural teeth
- Children and teens with developing bodies
- Pregnant patients seeking reduced exposure
- Individuals with chemical sensitivities or autoimmune concerns
- Patients interested in holistic, biological dental care
Our Green Practice Commitment
Our approach goes beyond materials. We strive to make every aspect of our practice more sustainable:
- Digital radiography for up to 90% less radiation
- Paperless records and communications
- Water-saving and eco-conscious sterilization practices
- Energy-efficient lighting and equipment
- Proper waste disposal and recycling initiatives
Experience the Difference of Biological Dentistry
At Dr. Steve Sato’s Office, our biological dentistry philosophy recognizes the connection between oral health and total body wellness. Our emphasis on BPA-free, low-toxicity, and biocompatible care reflects our commitment to your long-term health and the health of our planet.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re curious about safer dental materials or our green dentistry philosophy, contact our Dayton office to schedule a consultation. Dr. Sato and our team will help you explore the best options for your individual needs and values.
We proudly serve health-conscious patients from Kettering, Oakwood, Centerville, and the entire Dayton area.
Frequently Asked Questions About BPA-Free Fillings
Are BPA-free fillings as durable as traditional ones?
Yes! Our BPA-free composites and ceramics are incredibly durable and often bond better to your tooth than traditional materials.
Will insurance cover BPA-free materials?
Most plans cover composite (tooth-colored) fillings. Ceramic inlays and onlays may have different coverage. We’ll help you understand your benefits.
Do BPA-free fillings need special care?
No special care is needed—just maintain good brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.
How do I know if my old fillings contain BPA or mercury?
Silver fillings are usually amalgam (contains mercury). Older white fillings may contain BPA derivatives. Dr. Sato can evaluate your fillings during an exam.
Should I replace old fillings that might contain BPA?
Not unless there’s a problem. If replacement is needed, we’ll use BPA-free, biocompatible materials moving forward.
What makes Dr. Sato’s green dentistry unique?
Our care philosophy considers your whole-body health, offering materials and methods that support long-term wellbeing, not just short-term fixes.
