Do you have old silver fillings that show when you smile? Do you want a beautiful smile without sacrificing your natural teeth? If so, tooth-colored fillings may be the answer to your prayers. Whether you have tooth decay that needs to be treated or want to get rid of your old amalgam fillings, composite resin fillings can give you the look you desire.
In this guide to tooth-colored fillings, we will tell you everything you need to know to make an informed decision about your oral health while preserving the aesthetic beauty of your smile.
The Different Types of Fillings
Dental fillings are the most common dental restoration. Over the years, dentists have used different materials to repair decayed teeth. Fillings can be made from any of the following materials:
Amalgam – This is a combination of mercury, silver, copper, and tin, making it durable and cost-effective.
Gold – A gold alloy is used to fill the cavity, but this is an expensive option.
Composite – A combination of glass particles and resin, these tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your smile.
What’s the Process for Getting a Tooth-Colored Filling?
Dental fillings can typically be placed in an hour or less, and the steps involved in the procedure are as follows:
- Tooth preparation — First, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of your tooth and shape the area to be filled.
- Tooth cleaning — Next, the area will be cleaned and disinfected. This step helps prevent further infection and allows the composite to bond with the natural tooth.
- Tooth filling — After matching the composite material with your natural tooth, the dentist will fill the cavity with the material.
- Tooth curing — The dentist will harden and set the tooth-colored filling using a special LED light, making it strong and durable.
- Tooth polishing — The final step involves checking your bite and polishing your tooth, making it shine naturally.
Tooth-Colored Fillings Boast Many Benefits
If you’re wondering what the benefits are of tooth-colored fillings over amalgam fillings, consider:
Aesthetic Appeal
One of the most significant benefits of composite fillings is no one will know you have them! Unlike metal amalgam fillings that are dark and show when you smile, tooth-colored fillings are the same color as your natural teeth.
No Metal
Silver metal fillings expand and contract with temperature changes, causing them to pull away from the tooth, allowing bacteria to enter and putting the tooth at risk.
Fast Placement
No one wants to spend extra time in the dental chair, and with composite resin fillings, you won’t have to. Your tooth-colored filling can usually be placed in less than an hour, allowing you to return to your busy life as soon as possible.
Bone Health
With amalgam fillings, some of your natural tooth structure must be removed to support the filling. Tooth-colored fillings can be bonded directly onto your tooth, preserving more of your tooth’s structure.
Long-Lasting
Your new composite filling will be durable and long-lasting, and you can expect it to last 5–7 years with proper care.
Caring for Your New Filling
Once you get home from your dental appointment, you’ll need to take some simple steps to keep your dental filling looking great and help it last for many years:
- Brush your teeth twice a day. For the first 24 hours, brush gently around your new filling.
- Floss your teeth once a day. Consider a floss threader if regular dental floss isn’t enough to dislodge food from between your teeth.
- Avoid chewing anything hard or sticky for 24 hours; you don’t want to dislodge your new filling.
- Pay attention to any pain or swelling around the tooth that has been filled. This could be a sign of a problem; you should contact your dentist immediately if this happens.
Need More Information about Tooth-Colored Fillings in Aurora, CO?
If you want to replace your old amalgam fillings for a more attractive smile, or if you have questions about how composite tooth-colored fillings can restore your tooth in an aesthetically pleasing way, we’d be happy to hear from you! At Uptown Comprehensive Dentistry and Prosthodontics, our goal is to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Whether it’s dental fillings or porcelain veneers, we’ve got you covered. You can reach our dental office at (303) 627-5755.