When you go to the dentist, you discover that you have a cavity that needs to be filled. You may be concerned that the filling will leave an unsightly dark spot in your smile at first. But it’s not going to happen! Tooth-colored fillings have largely replaced dark metal fillings as the primary method of cavity treatment in most dental offices. In this blog post, we will discuss tooth-colored fillings and some of their benefits.
They appear very natural
As the name implies, tooth-colored fillings are the same color as natural tooth enamel. Your dentist will even match the color of your filling to the exact color of your pearly whites. They are almost imperceptible to onlookers, whether you are yawning, laughing, or talking with friends.
The procedure is fast
In most cases, a tooth-colored filling can be placed in less than an hour. First and foremost, your dental team ensures that you are comfortable. In most cases, this entails injecting local anesthesia into the tooth. After the decay is removed from the inside of the tooth, the filling material is inserted and hardened with a special curing light. The procedure concludes with shaping and polishing the filling so that it does not interfere with your bite. You will be able to eat and drink normally after your appointment.
They have endured the test of time
Tooth-colored fillings last a very long time. If properly cared for, they have the potential to last ten years or more. What does it mean to be properly cared for? Brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, visit your dentist every six months for a routine checkup, and avoid chewing on any hard objects that could damage or dislodge your filling (such as pen caps or ice).
They are conservative
Metal fillings are simply inserted into a cavity. That means that in order for the filling to be secure in place, a dentist must frequently remove some healthy tooth structure. Fillings that are tooth-colored stand out. They actually bond with the surrounding dentition, allowing your dentist to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
They are mercury-free
Many patients are concerned about mercury levels in metal fillings. That’s understandable given the fact that mercury is extremely toxic! Tooth-colored fillings do not contain mercury and can help you feel better about what you’re putting into your body.
Tooth-colored fillings are an outstanding, modern dental treatment that can keep your smile looking and functioning beautifully.