Tooth-colored fillings, also called composite resins, provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth. They are a good choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural.
The Benefits of Getting a Tooth-Colored Filling
We can place a composite resin filling quickly. This is an affordable and durable restoration that can be placed in less than 30 minutes per tooth. As with most dental care, experience matters, and since we place these fillings on a daily basis, we are skilled at completing the procedure in a way that is comfortable, effective, and fast. If you live in the Palm Beach Gardens area, we encourage you to consider the many benefits of getting tooth-colored fillings instead of amalgam ones.
Silver vs. Tooth Colored Filling: What You Should Know
Our cosmetic fillings are safer for your health. This is because they are made of resin or plastic material. Silver fillings are typically not silver, but a metal alloy comprised of several materials, among them mercury. There have been numerous health warnings regarding the overexposure to mercury, which is why pregnant women are warned to stay away from tuna. While many people believe amalgam fillings are perfectly safe, the data can be contradictory from study to study. If you want to avoid the risks that come with mercury exposure, have tooth-colored fillings placed, or have your existing silver ones replaced, visit our office.
COMPOSITE DENTAL FILLINGS FAQ
What is a composite resin (white filling)?
Resin fillings are created to match the shade of your natural teeth. This way, it will blend in once placed. While it is called a “white” filling, the actual shade could be more of a crème, if that is what’s required. Composite resin fillings function in the same way amalgam ones do, so they are still effective for restoring teeth that have suffered from decay or fracture.
What are the advantages of composite vs. amalgam fillings?
The biggest advantages of composite vs. amalgam fillings are that composite colored fillings do not stand out. If you have a cavity and need a filling, you can select a restoration that stands out when you smile or one that blends in. With amalgam fillings, it is easy to tell who has had good oral health and who has not. Fillings are a sign of poor health, so those with amalgam fillings are at a disadvantage. However, if you have a composite resin filling, it will blend in so seamlessly, even you may have difficulty remembering which tooth had the restoration. To learn more about this option, call (561) 624-2224 and schedule an appointment.
How are cosmetic fillings used?
Mark L. Civin, DDS uses cosmetic fillings to restore tooth structure that has been removed due to decay or to restore a tooth that has been slightly damaged. For example, if a tooth has been slightly chipped or some of the enamel is gone, a filling could be the appropriate restoration.
What is the difference between tooth-colored or composite dental fillings?
Composite dental fillings are just one type of tooth-colored fillings available to you. While they are typically used interchangeably, there is more than one way to receive a tooth-colored or natural-looking filling. Natural-looking ones are typically made of resin, ceramic, plastic, or glass ionomer, the most common being composite resin. All are effective, but glass ionomer lasts the least amount of time since the material is more fragile.
How long do resin fillings last?
There is no set expiration date, but Dr. Civin advises patients that fillings can deteriorate and wear down just like normal teeth. This makes it important to practice good oral hygiene and to brush with a soft or electronic toothbrush while avoiding biting down on anything inedible like a pencil.
