The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

When it comes to dental restorations, cavity fillings are by far the most commonly carried out by dentists across the U.S. Used to fill small to moderate-sized holes in our teeth caused by decay, cavity fillings restore the function of the affected tooth and prevent the decay from spreading where it can cause infection and more complex problems that may require invasive, extensive and expensive treatment.

Conventional filling material is made from soft, mouldable metal called silver amalgam. This material is very durable, but also highly noticeable when a person opens their mouth to eat, drink, laugh or speak. If you have several cavity fillings, people around you may see dark areas in your teeth, and this may cause you to feel self-conscious about the appearance of your teeth. This can make it difficult to share a natural smile. Some people’s confidence is so severely affected that it has an impact on their personal and professional lives.

Fortunately, there is an alternative to silver amalgam fillings that is just as successful – tooth-colored fillings.

 

What are Tooth-Colored Fillings Made From?

Rather than silver amalgam, most tooth-colored fillings are made from composite resin. This resin is a mixture of glass and plastic, and closely resembles the color of a natural tooth. It is also possible to get fillings which are made from 100% porcelain and these are also available in a variety of different shades, enabling you to find one that closely resembles the color of the tooth into which it will be placed.

 

The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Unsurprisingly, tooth-colored fillings have a number of cosmetic benefits for patients – so much so that a growing number of people are choosing to have existing amalgam filling replaced with tooth-colored alternatives.

Discretion. One of the main reasons why patients are choosing tooth-colored fillings is because of the discretion that they afford. Blending in seamlessly with your natural teeth, they are virtually impossible to spot. This enables you to show your teeth without feeling self-conscious that people might notice you have had dental work.

They don’t discolor natural teeth. Metal fillings can stain teeth over time, and many patients who have had them for some years find that the affected teeth appear to take on a grey tint. Tooth-colored restorations won’t do this, meaning that your smile will stay looking natural and attractive for longer.

Healthier teeth. Metal fillings can expand and contract when they come into contact with extreme temperature variables. This includes hot drinks, ice creams etc. Over time, the pressure caused by this expansion and contraction can cause irreversible damage to the teeth. Fortunately, tooth-colored fillings aren’t affected by changes in temperature and so will not harm the teeth in this way.

Less invasive treatment. When metal fillings are placed, it is necessary to remove a fair amount of the natural tooth. This isn’t necessary with tooth-colored fillings.

More attractive teeth will give you greater confidence. People who are happy with the way that their teeth look are more likely to smile and seem confident. This makes them appear more attractive and more capable – attributes that can benefit both personal and professional lives. 

If you would like to know more about the benefits of tooth-colored fillings, or if you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss your suitability for this solution, contact our dental offices in Destin, Panama City Beach, FL  today.