Tooth-Colored Fillings In Toledo & Sylvania
At Our Dental Office in Sylvania
Tooth-colored fillings, which are made from durable plastics called composite resins, can substantially improve the beauty of your teeth. They are similar in color and texture to natural teeth, ultimately leaving them less noticeable and far more attractive than traditional metal-based fillings. At Dental Health Associates, we use new and exciting techniques to fit dental fillings that look and act natural.
There are a few different types of tooth colored fillings which include composite, composite inlays, and porcelain inlays and onlays. A composite filling usually only requires one visit. Using a composite filling, we are usually able to keep most of the remaining healthy tooth intact. Inlays and onlays are used to restore teeth that are badly damaged by decay or wear.
Here are just a few advantages of tooth-colored fillings:
- No more unsightly amalgam or silver fillings
- Bonded to teeth by resin or porcelain
- They create a stronger, more natural-looking effect
- Provide a bright, healthy, & strong smile
Do I Need a Filling?
Fillings are placed to reconstruct teeth that have cavities. Keep in mind that some cavities can be symptom-free and do not cause any pain or discomfort. They may only be detected during a dental exam with X-rays; this is why it is important to schedule regular check-ups at Dental Health Associates. If you have been told you have a cavity, do not put off treatment. The longer you wait, the bigger the cavity can get and the more intensive dental treatment you will need.
Our team is often asked whether a patient should replace his or her amalgam fillings with more modern tooth-colored fillings. We recommend replacing amalgam fillings only if there is a legitimate reason. For example, if decay has accumulated under the filling, or the tooth or filling has developed cracks, we recommend having the amalgam fillings replaced with tooth-colored fillings. Replacing the filling for no good reason may unnecessarily weaken the tooth or lead to other complications.
More about Treatment with Tooth-Colored Fillings
The first step is to identify the affected area through a visual exam and set of X-rays. We will advise you on the best course of action based on the extent of damage caused by the tooth decay. If the damage is severe, we may recommend an alternative solution such as a dental crown.
To begin the filling procedure, the tooth decay is removed and the area is cleaned. Then, we apply a bonding agent and layers of the composite material. Once the cavity is filled, we use a special light to harden the material into place. The filling closes off the space where bacteria can enter the tooth, thereby preventing future problems with decay.
While the procedure takes a little longer than traditional, amalgam or silver restorations, the end result is a nicer, more natural smile. Tooth-colored fillings are always placed on front teeth for aesthetic reasons, and are an option for your back teeth.
Tooth-Colored Fillings FAQ
Why did I get a cavity?
Almost all Americans get a cavity at some point in their lives, even those that brush and floss religiously. Unfortunately, sometimes bacteria and plaque accumulate in difficult-to-reach areas and cause problems. The important thing to do is to get a filling as soon as a cavity is discovered and to continue your twice-daily oral hygiene routine to prevent more cavities in the future.
What happens if I procrastinate on getting a filling?
The longer a cavity goes untreated, the bigger it becomes. Past a certain point, a simple filling may no longer adequately protect your tooth. A root canal, which is a more invasive procedure, can usually be performed to preserve the tooth, but in the most extreme cases, an extraction may become necessary.
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
Resin fillings last several years before they start to erode. With digital images, your dentist can determine if the filling is no longer adequately preventing infection inside your tooth. After five to 10 years, you are likely to need a replacement filling to protect your tooth.
How do I take care of my fillings?
Your teeth that have been treated with tooth-colored filling should be treated the same as your other teeth. Brush and floss every day so that your teeth remain healthy and do not develop cavities that would warrant more fillings. Since acidic and sugary foods accelerate the erosion of resin, you should limit your consumption of such foods. Chewing on hard foods (or objects like your fingernails) may also cause the resin to crack prematurely.
Our team would be happy to discuss the advantages of tooth-colored fillings with you in more detail during consultation. We can examine your teeth and recommend the best treatment based on your needs and aesthetic goals. Call us today for more information about tooth-colored fillings.