Tooth-colored fillings are a type of dental restoration used to replace sections of a tooth. At Mitra Hooshangi, DDS, LLC, tooth-colored fillings are used to repair a tooth that is decayed, broken, cracked, or worn down. The composite resin material is flexible, making it able to fill in cracks and pits in the teeth. This material matches the color of the patient’s teeth, so the restoration blends in with the surrounding teeth.

Choosing Between Amalgam and Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings are an excellent choice for restoring teeth that have been affected by decay. These composite resin fillings strengthen your teeth. Many patients prefer tooth-colored fillings over amalgam fillings because they can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth. This means that your fillings will look more uniform with the rest of your smile, which can give your smile a more seamless appearance. Tooth-colored fillings can also be easier to maintain since they can be polished, while amalgam fillings cannot.

How Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Placed?

Tooth-colored fillings are made of composite resin, and a dental resin color matches your tooth. The composite resin is bonded to the tooth, restoring its structure. The first step to placing a tooth-colored filling is to prepare the tooth, for which the dentist will numb your tooth with a local anesthetic.

The dentist will then remove the decayed portion of the tooth with a dental drill. Once the tooth is prepped, the filling will be placed. The dentist will shape the composite resin to match the natural contours of the tooth, then will harden the filling with a special light. Once the filling is in place, the dentist will shape and polish the tooth for a smooth, natural appearance.

The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings are incredibly natural in appearance. Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are an excellent alternative to traditional metal fillings. These durable fillings make them a great solution for cavities and tooth decay on back teeth. Composite fillings can withstand regular daily use without the risk of chipping or cracking. Tooth-colored fillings also allow patients to enjoy their smiles without the prominent appearance of metal fillings. Tooth-colored fillings are incredibly versatile and can be used to treat cavities, decay, fractures, and more.

How Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Cared For?

With proper care, dental fillings can last up to 10-15 years, depending on the type of filling. Brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and visiting the dentist twice yearly are essential to keeping your smile healthy.

Tooth-colored fillings are an excellent choice for those who prefer not to have metal fillings in their teeth. To learn more about the advantages of tooth-colored fillings, visit Mitra Hooshangi, DDS, LLC at 2112 Gallows Rd D1, Vienna 22182, or call Dentist in Vienna, VA at (703) 328-3927.