Why Tooth-Colored Fillings Have Become Popular
Because of how they’ve commonly looked in the past, no one has really wanted to show off their recent filling. Thankfully for those with cavities, the invention of tooth-colored fillings, or composite resins, has allowed our Ann Arbor, MI, dentists to offer a camouflaged restoration.
Here’s what you need to know about .
How Do They Compare to Metal Amalgam Fillings?
When you hear the word ‘filling’, it’s likely that an image of shiny metal on top of a tooth comes to mind. Traditionally, dentists only offered to patients because of their ease and durability.
Increased preference for a more natural look, however, led to the popularity of other materials, like composite resin. Made up of an acrylic resin reinforced with a powdered glass filler, composite resin or discreetly blend in with the shade of your other teeth.
Aside from their low-profile look, there also exists a health benefit. Unlike metal fillings, composite resin fillings do not contain a small amount of mercury. While some patients may have no reaction to the mercury, some do. For those susceptible to its effects or simply wanting a metal-free appearance, composite resin fillings are the right choice.
Pros to Choosing Tooth-Colored Fillings
Composite fillings possess many advantages when compared to more traditional options. Our dentists know how distracting metal can be in your smile. Because of this, we’ll exclusively recommend discreet tooth-colored fillings if you have a cavity.
This type of dental filling is:
- Available in colors that match your natural enamel
- Durable and strong
- Able to be completed in one visit to our office
- Conservative as only a small amount of healthy tooth structure is removed during placement
- Resistant against fractures
The Procedure Rundown
Before any dental filling can be recommended, our dentists will conduct an oral examination. If the cavity has become too large, we may have to place a dental crown but otherwise, we’ll get started as planned.
Our dentists will apply a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area so you feel no pain or discomfort. Then, we’ll use a dental drill to remove the decayed part of your tooth. With the decay gone, the tooth will then be cleaned and dried before the resin is introduced.
The final stage of the process involves our dentists into the hole in your tooth. A special light will be used to cure or harden each layer of filling to make sure everything is set. Some shaping, contouring, and polishing will happen at the end to guarantee you’re comfortable with the natural-looking result.
What It Takes to Prevent Future Cavities
While composite resin fillings are less obvious than metal amalgam, the best option is still no filling at all. Practice regular oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. If you’re able, swishing with an antiseptic mouthwash after brushing and flossing also helps to fight decay.
Outside of the home, we encourage patients to visit our office every six months for a teeth cleaning. Routine cleanings allow our dentists the chance to check for any arising issues and offer advice on keeping teeth cavity-free.
We can also apply dental sealants to teeth for extended protection. Ask our dentists about the easy application procedure and how it can benefit adults and children.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Our , want you to love the look of your restored smile. We offer fillings for all patients that are low-key in their appearance so you don’t have to feel embarrassed showing your teeth after having a cavity treated. Call Excel Dental today at (734) 929-9999 to request an appointment.