Tooth Colored Fillings

What Are Tooth Colored Fillings? 

When you have a cavity, your dentist will carve out the infected, diseased part of your tooth and fill it with a material commonly known as a filling. Traditionally, those fillings have been made of a metal material called amalgam, making those familiar silver spots we commonly see in our smiles.

There is another option, however, known as composite resin fillings, or tooth colored fillings. These fillings not only match the color of your natural teeth and but are also stronger and can last longer than traditional amalgam fillings. Tooth colored fillings, or composite fillings, are a great option to replace existing amalgam fillings that are weakened or damage from use over time, or for new fillings that match more seamlessly with your natural tooth.
 

Why Do I Need a Tooth Colored Filling?

Tooth colored fillings, or composite resin fillings, are a good choice to fill any new cavities, particularly if they’re located in a part of your smile that’s visible. By choosing composite resin, you ensure that your new filling will blend in with your existing, natural teeth. 

Fillings can also weaken over time. Composite fillings can be a beneficial choice to replace existing amalgam fillings that might be damaged or weakened from injury or even just general use over time. Upon examination, your dentist might suggest switching out old fillings for new, tooth colored, composite resin. If you’re concerned about your current fillings, make an appointment with your dentist to discuss your options. 
 

What Should I Expect at Filling Appointment?

After assessing your filling needs at an initial cleaning and/or consultation appointment, your dentist will schedule a separate appointment for any necessary filling procedures. At that time, the dentist will drill out any damaged or infected tooth to prepare the tooth for the filling, clean and disinfect the area, and apply the composite, or tooth colored, material. A composite filling can take more time than a traditional amalgam filling, as the dentist will continuously rinse the area with water while applying the composite resin.
 

How Long Do Tooth Colored Fillings Last?

All fillings might require additional treatment over their lifespan. It’s important to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible after a filling. Good dental hygiene habits will help ensure the longevity of your filling, and help prevent future ones. Your Huntley Dental Associates team can help ensure that you develop and continue healthy hygiene practices.
 

How Much Do Tooth Colored Fillings Cost?

Tooth colored fillings are investments in your oral health. Using state-of-the-art techniques and technologies, including computerized operatories, digital radiography, and flat-screen monitors, Huntley Dental Associates provides superior oral treatment in a comfortable environment.

Please contact Huntley Dental Associates to discuss insurance options and pricing details, or with any additional questions about tooth colored fillings.