TOOTH COLORED FILLINGS
In the past, most fillings were made from amalgam, a mix of metals including: zinc, tin, copper, mercury, and silver.
These fillings, often referred to as silver fillings, are clearly visible as they created a stark contrast with the natural color of enamel. For many years, silver fillings were by far the most popular option thanks to their durability. Recent technological advances have made tooth colored fillings a viable alternative. Composite resin fillings are now strong enough to be used in the posterior teeth that do most of the chewing.
Tooth colored fillings are fillings made of a composite resin which is offered in colors that match the tooth surface. Because composite fillings are not made of metal, we can blend and mix shades to find the perfect color to match your natural teeth. Tooth colored fillings not only help restore fractured or decaying teeth, but can also be used to alter the shape and size of your teeth to get a desired look.
There are many reasons for composite fillings such as:
How are composite fillings placed?
In most cases, in order to place a composite filling the tooth will have to be anesthetized (numb), your dentist will remove the decay, prepare the fractured areas, or roughen up the tooth that will receive the composite filling. The prepared area will then be thoroughly cleaned with a special solution and a special bonding agent will be used. Now the tooth is ready for the composite filling which will then be shaped and polished to its original shape.
It is not uncommon to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold during the first days after a composite filling. However, this should subside shortly after the new filling
Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.
It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth becomes accustomed to your mouth.
These fillings, often referred to as silver fillings, are clearly visible as they created a stark contrast with the natural color of enamel. For many years, silver fillings were by far the most popular option thanks to their durability. Recent technological advances have made tooth colored fillings a viable alternative. Composite resin fillings are now strong enough to be used in the posterior teeth that do most of the chewing.
Tooth colored fillings are fillings made of a composite resin which is offered in colors that match the tooth surface. Because composite fillings are not made of metal, we can blend and mix shades to find the perfect color to match your natural teeth. Tooth colored fillings not only help restore fractured or decaying teeth, but can also be used to alter the shape and size of your teeth to get a desired look.
There are many reasons for composite fillings such as:
- Decayed teeth (cavities)
- Fractured/ chipped teeth
- Closing gaps between teeth (for aesthetic reasons)
- Closing contacts between molars (depending if tooth has existing filling)
- Worn or pitted teeth
How are composite fillings placed?
In most cases, in order to place a composite filling the tooth will have to be anesthetized (numb), your dentist will remove the decay, prepare the fractured areas, or roughen up the tooth that will receive the composite filling. The prepared area will then be thoroughly cleaned with a special solution and a special bonding agent will be used. Now the tooth is ready for the composite filling which will then be shaped and polished to its original shape.
It is not uncommon to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold during the first days after a composite filling. However, this should subside shortly after the new filling
Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.
It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth becomes accustomed to your mouth.