Tooth-Colored Fillings – Granby, CT
Metal-Free Cavity Repair
In the old days, dentists used to rely on a material called amalgam to fill cavities. Amalgam is a mixture of different metals, like silver and even trace amounts of mercury. For several decades, amalgam was considered the gold standard when it came to restoring teeth that had been damaged by decay. Eventually, though, patients became concerned about the level of mercury in these fillings. After all, mercury could potentially seep into the body from the fillings and cause harm. While scientists have not explicitly confirmed that the mercury in amalgam fillings is a threat, many people agreed that something about these fillings needed to change. That’s why today, most dentists use tooth-colored fillings made from a composite resin material for metal-free cavity repair.
Why Choose Salmon Brook Dental for Tooth-Colored Fillings?
- Late and Saturday Appointments Available
- Restore Your Smile Without Metal
- Blends Right in With Your Existing Enamel
Amalgam vs. Tooth-Colored Fillings
While some dentists still place metal fillings, the biggest disadvantage of these restorations is their appearance. Amalgam fillings leave behind an unattractive dark gray discoloration of the tooth, leaving some patients afraid to smile openly and confidently. Additionally, many patients are sensitive to metal, especially in the mouth, so composite resin fillings present an excellent alternative. Amalgam fillings also expand and contract when exposed to hot and cold stimuli, weakening the tooth over time. On the other hand, tooth-colored fillings remain the same size despite the temperature.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings are designed with maintaining the beauty of your smile in mind. Instead of standing out in your grin, the composite resin material is custom shaded to blend in with your existing tooth enamel. Besides this aesthetic option, composite fillings are also a more conservative treatment option. To place metal fillings, more of your enamel had to be carved out to make room. Composite resin bonds directly to your tooth, allowing you to keep more of your natural tooth structure. This powerful bond also makes a loose filling or cracks in the tooth much less likely.
The Process of Receiving Tooth-Colored Fillings
More often than not, our dentists can place a tooth-colored filling in just one quick appointment. The composite resin is applied in layers until the cavity is entirely filled and the tooth restored. Next, the material is hardened into place with a curing light, which also helps in the chemical bonding process. Lastly, your tooth is polished, and any final adjustments are made as needed.
With proper at-home oral hygiene, like regular brushing and flossing, and biannual checkups and cleanings with us, you can expect your tooth-colored fillings to last for years to come, possibly even a decade. It’s worth mentioning that composite fillings are still vulnerable to staining. That means that if you enjoy consuming coffee, tea, wine, or berries, it’s advisable that you brush your teeth immediately afterward to prevent your filling from becoming discolored. At the very least, rinse with water.
Do you have a cavity that needs seamless repair? Contact us today to schedule your consultation for a tooth-colored filling.
I Need a Checkup & Cleaning I am Worried About Bleeding Gums I Have a Cavity or Broken Tooth I am Missing 1 or More Teeth I Want a Straighter Smile I Have a Dental Emergency! I Want to Enhance My Smile I am Concerned About Sleep Apnea I Need My Wisdom Teeth Extracted View Our Services