Sun Dental Group prioritize your dental health, with treatments that work effectively and aesthetically. One such newer treatment is the tooth-colored filling. Otherwise known as composite fillings, these restore the function of the destroyed tooth, but since they are of the same color as your teeth, they offer a more attractive alternative to the traditional metal fillings.

What Is Tooth-Colored Filling?

Tooth-colored fillings can be shaded in order to match the color of your natural teeth exactly. This is the reason composite resins is used to make an ideal restoration for teeth with cavities and teeth that are damaged or chipped in the front of the mouth. The composite resins used in these fillings include plastics and fine glass particles to increase the strength of the restoration, hence durability.

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Aesthetics: Tooth-colored fillings are best because they can be colored to correspond to the color of your natural teeth. This makes the filling almost invisible and is of most use on front teeth or other places in the mouth that are readily visible.

Bonding Strength: Composite fillings adhere directly to the tooth structure; hence, they strengthen the tooth. Further, this bonding allows more retention of the natural tooth structure compared to the placement of an amalgam filling where more extensive, healthy tooth material often need to be removed.

Versatility: Composite resin can be used not only for filling cavities and correcting broken or chipped teeth but also to correct discolored or poorly aligned teeth cosmetically.

Reduced Sensitivity: Tooth-colored fillings are less sensitive than metal fillings because the composite material neither contracts nor expands upon temperature changes. Less expansion or contraction means less potential to fracture a tooth.

The Process of Tooth-Colored Fillings

The process to get tooth-colored fillings can be done quickly and, in many cases, during one visit to our office. Here is what you can expect during the procedure:

Preparation: The area around the affected tooth is locally anesthetized to prevent pain during the procedure. The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed.

Etching and Bonding: A process that prepares the tooth by slightly roughening the surface so the composite material can bond properly. A bonding agent is then applied to the tooth.

Placement of Composite Resin: The tooth-colored composite resin is placed in layers and applied. Each layer is exposed to a particular curing light. That light hardens the previously applied layers before applying a new one.

Shaping and Polishing: The dentist shapes the filling into place and then polishes it so that it matches the same contours and smoothness as your natural tooth, thereby creating a comfortable bite and natural appearance.

Taking Care of Tooth-Colored Fillings

The longevity of tooth-colored fillings relies on proper care. Be sure to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste two times daily, flossing at least once a day, and visiting Sun Dental Group for regular check-ups and cleanings. Additionally, do not bite down on objects that are hard, like ice or pens, as this could cause damage to the material that makes up the composite.

Tooth-colored fillings are the most modern and relevant ways to rehabilitate destroyed teeth naturally and appealingly. All of us at Sun Dental Group assure you the best dental care one could ever receive. We have the best team on board to get that impeccable, healthy smile. If you have any questions, need more information, or would like to book an appointment with us, please get in touch with us. Your smile is our priority!