Tooth-Colored Fillings – Alhambra, CA
Seamless Cavity Repair
Some years ago, dentists relied exclusively on a dark-colored material known as silver amalgam to fill in cavities. Understandably, patients disliked the way it made their smile look. Today, though, our Alhambra, CA, dental practice can offer seamless cavity repair via tooth-colored fillings. This simple and fast restorative treatment can prevent decay from worsening and allow you to maintain a confident and bright smile. Continue reading to learn more about tooth-colored fillings, and give us a call when you are ready to book a consultation.
Why Choose Advanced Dentistry of Alhambra for Tooth-Colored Fillings?
- Dentists with Many Years of Combined Experience
- Mercury-Free and Metal-Free Restorations
- Friendly, Caring, & Empathetic Team
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
The purpose of dental fillings is to fill in spots of decay in order to protect a tooth’s inner layers and prevent the decay from spreading. In the past, this was accomplished with silver amalgam, which consists of a combination of metals, including mercury.
Tooth-colored fillings, on the other hand, are composed of a biocompatible composite resin, which contains ultra-fine plastic and glass particles. One of the biggest advantages of the resin is that we can shade-match it to blend in beautifully with the natural color of your teeth; onlookers may never know that you ever even had a cavity!
The Process of Getting a Tooth-Colored Filling
Getting a tooth-colored filling takes just one appointment, which typically lasts less than one hour.
We usually get things started by numbing your mouth (if a cavity is relatively shallow, no local anesthetic may be necessary). Then, we carefully remove any decayed tissue from within the cavity. Next, we insert the shade-matched resin and use a special light to harden it. We finish by adjusting and polishing the filling so it will look and feel as natural as possible within your mouth.
You will be able to return to your normal routine right after your appointment. Your treated tooth might be extra-sensitive for a few days, but you should not expect to experience any significant pain.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Some remarkable benefits of tooth-colored fillings include:
- They are completely free of metals, including mercury. They are ideal for patients with metal sensitivities, as well as those who are concerned about the potential health effects of mercury.
- They are durable. Tooth-colored fillings can last for several years.
- They do not expand and contract in response to temperatures. This prevents damage and increased dental sensitivity.
- They require minimal tooth preparation. The resin bonds directly with your dental tissues, so we do not have to remove a significant amount of healthy dentition in order to place a filling.
- They will not stain your teeth. Metal fillings can cause the surrounding enamel to look grayish. Tooth-colored fillings do not have this problem.