Benefits of Tooth-colored Fillings

By: Hillside Dental
Posted on: August 10, 2022

Dentists recommend fillings for patients with dental cavities because they are a safe and effective treatment method. Composite fillings offer a natural appearance, making them ideal for anyone who wants unnoticeable dental restoration. They match the shade of the patient’s teeth, helping maintain the natural smile.

They also help restore or repair broken or chipped teeth. The benefits of tooth-colored fillings include:

Visually Pleasing Results

The dentist will discuss the options available if you require fillings to treat cavities. These fillings produce better results compared to silver and gold amalgam fillings. They blend in with the neighboring teeth structure, making it impossible to tell that you have a filling as you speak, laugh, or yawn. This quality makes the fillings ideal for use on the front teeth.

Quick and Painless Procedure

A good reason to get tooth-colored fillings is that the procedure is quick and painless. It can take less than one hour to fill two cavities. The procedure involves the use of local anesthesia to numb the treatment area.

After the numbing takes effect, the dentist removes the infected tooth material before cleaning the tooth. The tooth-colored resin is applied into the cavity, filling the space created by the decay. Placing, curing, and polishing the filling can take about 15 minutes.

The Fillings Are Long-lasting

When you get tooth-colored fillings, you benefit from long-lasting treatment. If you take proper care of your teeth, the fillings can last 10 years or more. Brush your teeth 2 times a day and floss daily to protect your restoration.

It is crucial to schedule regular dental cleanings and exams. It would be best if you also avoided destructive habits like chewing on hard candy or objects that can dislodge or chip the fillings.

Healthy Tooth Structure

When you get tooth-colored composite fillings, the procedure leaves more of the tooth structure intact. The treatment is more conservative than using metal fillings. The composite resin filling bonds to the teeth, maintaining the natural structure.

The dentist will not have to remove too much of the natural tooth before applying the filling. Leaving much of the tooth structure intact will ensure stability while protecting the surrounding teeth.

A Mercury-free Option

Unlike silver amalgam fillings that contain mercury, composite resin fillings are mercury-free. It is true that the amount of mercury in the metal fillings is low and does not usually cause harm. However, the mercury-free option will give you peace of mind. You do not have to worry about any amount of toxic material getting into your system.

Dental cavities form when acid present in the mouth erodes the enamel. They can affect people of all ages. If not treated, cavities can lead to infection, severe toothaches, and extractions. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent cavities. Regular dental checkups and exams will help detect issues that can lead to cavities.

For more information on the benefits of tooth-colored fillings, contact Hillside Dental at our Las Vegas, Nevada office. Existing patients should call (702) 895-7799 to schedule an appointment today. New patients can call (702) 666-8584.