Advances in technology make modern dentistry a lot different from what your parents and grandparents were used to. Take a peek at this list of some of the most important changes in the dental world over this century for a better idea. One of the biggest changes that almost every patient will notice? The move to tooth colored fillings instead of silver, or amalgam. White fillings are made of a composite resin that blends flawlessly with the rest of your smile. Dr. Carmen offers tooth colored fillings in Norman, OK.
What Causes Cavities?
You need a filling to replace the enamel you’ve lost as a result of a cavity, or the small hole left by tooth decay. Cavities are caused when sugar, plaque, and bacteria are allowed to build up on the surface of the teeth. This combination releases acids that eat through tooth enamel, causing a small hole — the cavity — to form. Cavities should be treated immediately to avoid serious infection, root canal, and tooth loss.
You can prevent cavities by maintaining excellent dental hygiene habits. Make sure you are brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist as recommended for healthy teeth and gums.
What Are Tooth Colored Fillings?
Also known as a white or composite filling, the tooth colored filling is a way to restore your tooth from a cavity without marring the overall appearance of your smile. The method uses a composite resin made of smooth plastic and glass materials. Traditionally, cavities were filled with silver, or amalgam, which requires more removal of the natural tooth structure and is highly noticeable against natural tooth enamel.
The benefits offered by tooth colored fillings are numerous. Some of the most apparent include:
- Tooth colored fillings require less removal of the natural tooth structure.
- Composite resin is biocompatible and totally safe for use in the mouth.
- Silver fillings can hide future breakage, leaks, and/or further decay, even on an x-ray.
- White fillings are dry within minutes of their application.
- The appearance of the smile is unaffected by tooth colored fillings.
Some patients choose to replace their silver fillings with the tooth colored version as a way to prevent future problems. While not completely necessary, preventive filling replacement is a good way to keep yourself safe from costly, time-consuming procedures later on. Patients who worry about the potential for mercury exposure with silver fillings may also choose to have their fillings replaced with white ones.
Using Tooth Colored Fillings for Cosmetic Improvements
In addition to filling cavities and replacing silver fillings, the tooth colored composite resin can be used to correct minor dental imperfections. Slight gaps between the teeth, dental stains, chips, and more can be repaired using a method we call cosmetic bonding. Often completed in just one visit to the dentist’s, it’s a quick, affordable alternative to other cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Your Dentist in Norman Provides Tooth Colored Fillings
Dr. Norman is happy to offer patients tooth colored fillings. Are you interested in repairing your tooth or teeth with the cosmetic treatment? Contact our office to discuss how we can help your smile today!