Tooth-Colored Fillings In Sylvania & Toledo, OH
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.
Are tooth-colored fillings strong enough for back teeth?
Yes, today’s composite resin and porcelain materials are engineered to be durable enough for both front and back teeth. While metal amalgam used to be the go-to choice for molars due to chewing pressure, modern composite fillings are strong, long-lasting, and can withstand everyday bite force when properly placed. For very large cavities or severely worn teeth, your dentist may recommend an inlay, onlay, or crown for added protection.
How do tooth-colored fillings bond to the tooth structure?
Unlike metal fillings, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth. After removing decay, your dentist applies a special bonding agent that creates a tight seal between the filling and the enamel. The composite is then layered into the cavity and hardened with a curing light. This bonding process helps preserve more of the natural tooth and supports its structure, reducing the likelihood of future cracks or fractures.
Do composite fillings stain over time?
Tooth-colored fillings are somewhat stain-resistant but not stain-proof. They can become discolored from repeated exposure to dark beverages such as coffee, tea, or red wine, or from tobacco use. Unlike natural enamel, composite resin doesn’t respond to whitening treatments. If a filling becomes noticeably stained or darker than the surrounding enamel, it may need to be polished or replaced for aesthetic reasons.
What’s the difference between composite and porcelain fillings?
Composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin material and are typically placed in a single visit. Porcelain fillings (often used for inlays or onlays) are fabricated in a lab and then bonded to the tooth in a second appointment. Porcelain tends to last longer and resist staining better than composite, making it a good option for larger restorations or patients who want the most durable, aesthetic outcome.
Can I replace my old silver fillings with tooth-colored ones just for cosmetic reasons?
In most cases, replacing an amalgam (silver) filling for appearance alone isn’t necessary unless there’s a functional concern, such as cracks, leakage, or decay under the old filling. However, if your old fillings are in visible areas and you’d prefer a more natural-looking restoration, your dentist can evaluate whether replacement is safe and beneficial for your specific situation.
Is the procedure for getting a composite filling painful?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the placement of a tooth-colored filling. A local anesthetic is typically used to numb the area, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Because composite fillings require less tooth removal than amalgam fillings, the overall process is more conservative and more comfortable. Mild sensitivity after treatment is normal and usually fades within a few days.
Are there alternatives to fillings for small cavities?
For very early-stage decay, your dentist may suggest preventive options such as fluoride treatments, sealants, or remineralization to halt cavity progression without the need for drilling or filling. These treatments are only appropriate in limited cases and require careful monitoring. Once decay breaks through the enamel, a filling becomes necessary to restore the tooth and prevent further damage.
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.