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Fillings and treatment
of a decayed
Fillings and treatment of a decayed
Tooth colored fillings, also called white fillings, are dental fillings that restore and mimic the natural appearance of tooth structure. In addition to restoring teeth that have fractured or decayed, tooth colored fillings may also be used cosmetically to change the size, color and shape of teeth. This quality is particularly useful in closing gaps between teeth repairing chipped teeth and making teeth appear to be more straight or even.
In the past, the only options available to patients with cavities were unsightly silver fillings that tended to darken with age. These composite fillings are matched to the natural color of your teeth, and directly bonded to the surface of your tooth in order to prevent further decay.
The composite material used to fill cavities is extremely natural-looking and blends in well with natural enamel. They are made of a very durable tooth colored composite resin and the material is hardened by a light curing process. The filling material can be customized to match your tooth shade for a result that provides subtle tooth improvement. Many of our patients who replace old metal fillings with white ones are very happy with their new smile appearance.
Advantages of tooth colored fillings (white fillings)?
- They closely match natural tooth color and appearance.
- They bond to tooth structure chemically and thus do not require the placement of slots, grooves or pins in healthy tooth structure to mechanically retain them.
- The bonding of white fillings to the tooth restore 85% – 95% of the original strength of the tooth.
- They completely harden in seconds instead of days required by some other materials.
- Tooth sensitivity, if any, due to composite resin use is minimal and brief.
- They may be used on front and back teeth without compromising esthetics.
- If damaged they can be repaired.
Disadvantages of tooth colored fillings (white fillings)?
- Dark liquids (coffee, tea, red wine) and foods with rich dyes (curries, etc.) may stain them.
- They are not as strong as metal fillings.
- Frequent and/or prolonged exposure to liquids with high alcohol content may degrade them.
- They are more expensive than dental amalgam fillings.
- Dental insurance companies frequently impose a surcharge, payable by the patient, for placement of white fillings instead of dental amalgam, especially for back teeth.
*Source: http://www.affordabledentalcare.com/