Tooth-Colored Fillings – Athens, GA
A Reliable and Natural Solution for Tooth Decay
In the past, repairing cavities often meant using silver amalgam fillings, which were not only highly visible but could also pose risks to your oral health over time. Thankfully, dental technology has evolved significantly, and tooth-colored fillings now provide a safer, more effective, and aesthetically pleasing alternative. If you’d like to learn more about this modern solution for tooth decay, keep reading to learn more – or contact our friendly team today!
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings are designed to restore teeth affected by decay while blending seamlessly with your natural smile. Unlike the metal fillings of the past, these fillings are made from composite resin, a material composed of fine acrylic and glass particles.
The resin is highly customizable and can be precisely shaded to match the color of your natural teeth, ensuring a flawless appearance. It’s also biocompatible, bonding directly to the enamel and preserving more of your natural tooth structure than traditional metal fillings.
The Process of Getting a Tooth-Colored Filling
Getting a tooth-colored filling is a simple and efficient process that can usually be completed in a single appointment, typically lasting about an hour. While the exact timing may vary based on individual needs, here’s what to expect.
To ensure your comfort, we’ll first numb the affected area. We can also use dental sedation if you’re feeling particularly anxious. Next, the decayed portion of the tooth will be carefully removed, and the area will be thoroughly cleaned.
A composite resin will be shaded to match your natural tooth color for a seamless result. It’ll be applied directly to the tooth, sculpted to restore the lost enamel, and then hardened with a special curing light. Once the resin is bonded in place, we’ll polish your tooth and ensure your bite feels comfortable, leaving you with a strong, natural-looking restoration.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings offer numerous benefits beyond their natural appearance:
- Preserve Natural Tooth Structure: Unlike metal fillings, composite resin bonds directly to the tooth, requiring less removal of healthy enamel. This helps maintain the strength and integrity of your natural tooth.
- Minimize Sensitivity: Composite resin creates a tight seal with the tooth, reducing the likelihood of dental sensitivity and providing better protection against bacteria.
- Lower Risk of Future Decay: By forming a secure barrier, tooth-colored fillings help prevent bacteria from entering the inner layers of the tooth, reducing the risk of further decay and infection.