Tooth decay is something many people face, no matter their age. When decay damages a tooth, people often fix it with a dental filling to rebuild its shape and prevent further damage from happening. In the past, fillings were mainly made from amalgam—a mix of silver and mercury. Lately, fillings that match the color of your teeth have become a popular option. These tooth-colored or composite fillings allow dentists to match the filling to the natural color of your teeth so it looks like real enamel.
Exploring the Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings match your tooth color, making them blend in perfectly. They’re versatile and can be used differently without removing too much of your natural tooth structure. These fillings are solid and last a long time, meaning you won’t have to worry about getting them redone anytime soon. Putting them in is also a quick and straightforward procedure.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: Blends Seamlessly with Natural Teeth
One big plus of fillings that match the color of your teeth is how natural they look. This means no one will notice dental work when you smile or laugh. Whether you need a filling in a tooth at the front where everyone can see or one hidden away at the back, tooth-colored fillings keep things looking nice while fixing tooth decay.
- Versatility: Suitable for Both Front and Back Teeth Restoration
One great thing about fillings that match the color of your teeth is how they can be used for both front and back teeth. Even though amalgam fillings, known for their strength, are typically chosen for back teeth, these tooth-colored options look much better when you need a repair in one of your visible front ones. This means your dentist has the flexibility to pick the best type of filling depending on where it’s needed and what’s going on with the impacted tooth. Whether it’s a cavity in a front or back tooth, these natural-looking fillings can fix tooth decay while looking natural.
- Tooth Preservation: Minimal Removal of Tooth Structure Needed
When fixing teeth, it is important to keep as much of your natural tooth as possible. Tooth-colored fillings are great for this. With these modern fillings, dentists only remove a little bit, which means most of your natural tooth stays right where it should be. This keeps your teeth strong and healthy.
- Strength and Durability: Withstands Chewing Pressure
Tooth-colored fillings are tough and can handle all the daily chewing and biting. They’re a solid choice for fixing teeth because they don’t break down or get cracks like other fillings might over time. With their ability to stick well to natural tooth structure, these fillings stay in place well, even while eating.
- Quick and Easy Procedure: Often Completed in One Visit
One big plus of getting tooth-colored fillings is the quick and straightforward process. You don’t have to return to the dentist’s office like with other dental work. In just one trip, they can fix you up by removing any part of your tooth that’s bad or broken, cleaning it all out, and then putting in the filling material bit by bit. With each layer, they use a special light to make sure it sticks well to your tooth. After that, the dentist shapes this composite material to look right, removes any sticking-out bits, and gives everything a good polish.
- Compatibility: Less Likely to Cause Allergic Reactions
Fillings made from composite resin, which matches the color of your teeth, are an excellent choice for anyone. They’re less likely to cause allergic reactions than other types like amalgam fillings. This is excellent news for people who might be sensitive or allergic to certain metals. With tooth-colored fillings, you get a safe and dependable way to fix your teeth without worrying about allergies.
- Temperature Resistance: Reduced Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
Fillings that match the color of your teeth are great because they don’t react much to changes in temperature. If you often find it hard to eat or drink hot or cold foods due to tooth pain, these fillings can make a big difference. They’re made from composite resin, which acts as a shield for your tooth against sudden temperature shifts. This could mean less pain and more comfort when enjoying various foods and drinks. With these fillings, you no longer need to stress over eating something hot or cold.
Comparing Tooth-Colored Fillings with Amalgam Fillings
When you’re thinking about getting fillings that match the color of your teeth, it’s a good idea to look at silver fillings before making up your mind. Silver or amalgam fillings have been around for quite some time and are used to fix teeth. They’re made from mercury, silver, tin, zinc, and copper. The way they look might not please everyone since they don’t blend with natural tooth color, and there are some worries about mercury being harmful to health.
Health Considerations: Mercury-Free Composition
Tooth-colored fillings use composite resin, which doesn’t contain mercury. This matters to people who are worried about what mercury could do to their health. Even though groups like the American Dental Association, FDA, and many public health organizations say amalgam is okay to use, some people feel better going with options that don’t include mercury for their dental work.
Longevity and Maintenance: How They Compare
When comparing tooth-colored fillings to amalgam ones, consider how long they last and what kind of care they need. Amalgam fillings are tough and can last 10 to 15 years or even more. No matter what type you choose, visiting the dentist regularly and taking good care of your teeth is vital in helping any filling last longer while maintaining overall dental health.
Find Out About Tooth-Colored Fillings at Stiles Dental Care!
The next time you are fighting tooth decay, mention tooth-colored fillings with your dentist. Dental fillings fix these cavities to rebuild the tooth’s shape and protect it from further decay. Many dentists use tooth-colored fillings rather than amalgam fillings to stay on top of the latest dental trends. Contact Stiles Dental Care to schedule a filling today.
