Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings or white fillings, are a type of cosmetic dentistry treatment used to restore decayed or damaged teeth while maintaining a natural appearance. At Dental Care of Fremont, tooth-colored fillings are used to treat cavities and minor tooth decay. Cavities form when plaque is allowed to build up on the teeth, eventually hardening into tartar. If left untreated, tooth decay will spread to the inner layer of the tooth, leading to irreversible damage like tooth loss or even root canal infection.To treat cavities and prevent further damage, your dentist will fill the affected tooth with composite material. This material is designed to blend in with your natural teeth so your fillings will be undetectable to others.
The Procedure for Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings are made from a composite resin material that is color-matched to the natural shade of your teeth. This resin consists of a mixture of plastic and glass particles, which provides durability and aesthetics. The placement of tooth-colored fillings typically involves a straightforward procedure. Before a tooth can be filled, the surface of the tooth must be smoothed entirely and cleaned. Then, the composite resin material is applied in layers and shaped to match the contours of the tooth. A special light is used to harden each layer of the resin. The dentist will only need to remove a small amount of enamel from the surface before placing the restoration, which means less drilling and no anesthesia in most cases! This makes tooth-colored fillings an excellent option for any patient who needs a cavity filled while avoiding unnecessary discomfort and pain from having a drill used on them. Patients can get right back to their daily routine immediately after treatment.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings are an excellent option for patients who want their cavities fixed but don’t want noticeable silver fillings. Unlike metal amalgam fillings, composite resin matches your tooth’s natural color and is highly durable. It can also withstand the rigors of biting and chewing without the risk of breaking. Additionally, the material can be bonded to the damaged area of the tooth to strengthen the entire tooth structure. This can prevent future breakage or tooth loss due to weakened teeth. One of the advantages of tooth-colored fillings is that they require minimal removal of healthy tooth structure compared to amalgam fillings. This preservation of tooth structure helps maintain the tooth's strength and integrity.
Tooth-colored fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, which provides additional support and helps to strengthen the tooth. To learn more about tooth-colored fillings or other cosmetic dental procedures, contact Dental Care of Fremont at 43195 Mission Blvd # B4, Fremont, CA 94539, or call (510) 651-8479.
