Tooth-colored fillings are also known as composite fillings. They are made of a composite resin material that is shaded to blend in with your natural teeth. Tooth-colored fillings are an alternative to silver amalgam or gold fillings, which can distort the natural appearance of your teeth. Tooth-colored fillings can restore teeth affected by decay and damage, closing off any holes caused by cavities and restoring your tooth’s shape. They can also repair minor chips in front teeth or conceal discoloration that does not respond to teeth whitening treatments. At Dental Care of Fremont, composite fillings can be used to restore both small and moderate-sized cavities and repair minor chip or teeth cracks. They are also an option for replacing old and worn-out amalgam fillings, providing a more esthetically pleasing alternative.
Why Use Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings are a popular alternative to traditional metal fillings, as they can be closely matched to the color of your existing teeth. This means that when patients smile, their fillings won’t be visible in their smiles. These fillings also allow you to preserve more of your natural tooth structure when compared to amalgam or gold fillings. This means less tooth material must be removed from the tooth before the placement of the filling, helping to improve your oral health by preserving a healthier tooth structure and reducing the number of bacteria produced within the cavity. Additionally, composite fillings have thermal insulating properties. Unlike metal fillings, they do not expand or contract significantly due to temperature changes. This can reduce the likelihood of tooth sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli, making them more comfortable for patients.
Compared to amalgam fillings, these tooth-colored fillings do not contain mercury and are considered bio-compatible for patients. This helps to promote better overall health and reduce the risk of any possible heavy metal toxicity.
The Procedure for Tooth-Colored Fillings
The dentist will first remove the decayed portion of your tooth and shape it to create a stable foundation for the filling. Then, they will use composite resin to surround the cavity and restore its natural shape. A special light will harden the material and bond it to the tooth. Finally, the dentist will finish polishing the tooth to give it a natural appearance. A filling can usually be placed in one appointment. Sometimes, your dentist may need to place a temporary filling to protect your tooth until the permanent one is ready. You may need to return to the office for a second visit to place the permanent filling.
Once the dentist places your tooth-colored dental fillings, you can go back to your normal routine and enjoy all the foods you love without any restrictions. Composite resin is durable and can last for many years with proper care. To learn more about tooth-colored fillings and how they can improve your smile’s appearance, visit Dental Care of Fremont at 43195 Mission Blvd # B4, Fremont, CA 94539, or call (510) 651-8479.
