Tooth-Colored Fillings – Sarasota, FL

What are tooth-colored fillings made of?

Tooth-colored fillings are made of a composite resin material—a compound of ceramic and plastic—that can be specially shaded to perfectly match the color of a patient’s enamel, helping the filling practically disappear inside the mouth. Although composite resin takes a little more time to place than amalgam, it is significantly less noticeable. Plus, because composite is more flexible than amalgam, Dr. Tindal can use small, conservative fillings that preserve more of a patient’s natural dental structure. This, in turn, helps the repaired tooth last much longer.

What are the benefits of tooth-colored fillings compared to amalgam fillings?

Tooth-colored fillings have many advantages over their amalgam counterparts, including the following:

• Composite resin can be closely matched to the shade of the natural tooth, which is much more aesthetically pleasing.
• Composite resin is very stable, chemically bonding to the tooth structure.
• Whereas amalgam fillings require more tooth structure to be removed to make space, tooth-colored fillings are more flexible and typically mean that less needs to be removed for the composite resin.
• Composite fillings may result in fewer incidences of cracking or fracture than amalgam fillings.
• The surrounding tooth structure can appear gray with amalgam but maintains its natural tooth color with composite resin fillings.

How are tooth-colored fillings placed?

After applying a local anesthetic to numb the area, Dr. Tindal removes the decayed parts from the tooth and cleans out the cavity to make sure no debris or bacteria are still there. Then the composite resin is applied in layers, and each layer is hardened or cured by a special light. Finally your dentist in Sarasota shapes the filling, trims off excess material, and polishes the final result. Overall, the process is quick and painless for the patient and provides an appealing result.

How can I care for my tooth-colored fillings and make them last?

Caring for fillings is no different than the care you should take to prevent cavities in the first place. With or without fillings, you need to do the following:

• Brush at least twice a day.
• Floss at least once a day.
• Rise with a fluoride mouthwash daily.
• Choose to drink water instead of sugary drinks.
• Substitute sugary or processed foods for healthier alternatives.
• Avoid biting hard foods or substances like popcorn kernels and ice.
• See the dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.

In just one quick visit to Tindal Prosthodontics, you could enjoy your healthy, natural-looking smile again with tooth-colored fillings. To learn more about your restorative options or schedule an appointment, contact us today.