If you have a decayed tooth, we can restore it back to its normal shape and function with a filling. Fillings help prevent further decay by closing off any cracks or spaces where bacteria might enter. We use tooth-colored fillings at our practice. Tooth-colored fillings keep your teeth healthy, functional and natural-looking.
How Tooth-Colored Fillings Compare to Metal
Amalgam fillings are still placed in some practices, but they sit visibly against your natural teeth and can darken the surrounding enamel over time, leaving a grey cast many patients would rather not show when they smile. Metal also conducts temperature, so hot and cold foods can feel uncomfortable, and some people are sensitive to the material itself. Composite avoids all of that: it is shaded to match your own enamel, insulates the tooth, and lets us preserve more of its healthy structure.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings, also referred to as composite or white fillings, are specifically created to preserve the attractiveness of your smile. They are visually appealing and provide a less invasive treatment choice. The composite resin utilized in these fillings directly adheres to your tooth, effectively blocking bacteria and preventing future decay. Unlike metal fillings, tooth-colored fillings necessitate minimal enamel removal. Consequently, you can maintain a greater portion of your natural tooth structure.
The Process of Receiving Tooth-Colored Fillings
If you're looking for a cavity solution that doesn't involve metal, we offer tooth-colored fillings that bond directly to your tooth without removing excessive enamel. Our dentists will only remove the decayed portion, preserving more of your tooth's original structure and ensuring a longer-lasting filling compared to metal fillings.
What To Expect
The process starts with numbing the treatment area to ensure your comfort. You may feel slight pressure, but there should not be any pain. The damaged part of the tooth will be removed, and then the composite resin will be applied layer by layer until the tooth is restored to its optimal size and shape. Using a curing light, the material will be hardened into place, creating a strong bond with your enamel. Finally, we will polish the tooth and check your bite to ensure a proper fit.
How Long They Last
With proper oral hygiene and regular checkups and cleanings, you can expect your tooth-colored filling to last around ten years before needing replacement. However, it's important to note that these fillings can stain similar to natural teeth. To minimize staining, it's best to limit your consumption of foods and beverages that can discolor your teeth, such as coffee and dark sauces. If you do consume these items, be sure to brush your teeth or rinse with water immediately afterward.