How Tooth-Colored Fillings Can Improve Your Smile
Amalgam fillings remain a popular filling material choice for repairing decayed teeth. However, they are slowly being replaced by other options. The most popular alternative are tooth-colored fillings, otherwise known as composite resin fillings.
What Is A Tooth-Colored Filling?
Made out of a mix of plastics and small glass practices, the main advantage of using composite resin fillings is that they can be used to change the color or shape of a tooth. This means that the fillings can be made so that they don’t become obvious and make you conscious whenever you smile or open your mouth.
The procedure of getting a tooth-colored filling is simple. It usually requires only one appointment.
The first part of the procedure largely revolves around checking your mouth and choosing the best shade possible that matches the color of your teeth. Then, afterward, the dentist proceeds to remove the decay.
After removing the decayed part of the tooth, the dentist applies the filling material and uses a special curing light to harden each layer. The fitting is then shaped to fit your teeth and polished to smoothen it and help minimize staining.
Why Composite Resin Has Become So Popular
As mentioned earlier, the main advantage of composite resin is that it makes it nearly impossible for people to tell that your tooth had been restored. But, they’re not just aesthetically pleasing either. Because the fillings are bonded directly to the enamel, they’re very durable and can easily last for more than five years. And, as the procedure is still currently being refined and improved, tooth colored fillings in the future will only become more durable and last longer.
There are two problems, however. The first is that although cheaper than gold fillings, tooth-colored fillings cost much more than amalgams, which is why they remain a popular option. The second is that most insurance companies only cover tooth-colored fillings for the front teeth. Some companies may choose to cover the cost of the back teeth. But, they’ll usually only go as far as to cover the costs for an amalgam. So, you’ll have to cover the rest of the total amount yourself.
Caring For Your Tooth-Colored Fillings
The best way to take care of tooth-colored fillings is to stay on top of your oral care routine at all times. This means brushing at least twice a day, flossing at least once, and of course, visiting the dentist at least once every six months.
You may also want to limit your consumption of sugary snacks and drinks. Doing so will not only be better for your fillings but also for your oral health in general. Also, try to consume less coffee and other stain-causing food and beverages. Because even though tooth-colored fillings are very durable and stain-resistant, they can still get stained.
Lastly, if you have bruxism or chew on ice and other hard stuff regularly, you might either want to visit the dentist or try to put a stop to your habit. Durable as tooth-colored fillings are, they are not immune from chips and cracks.
To find out more about tooth-colored fillings contact Dr. Graham Farless in Greensboro, NC by calling 336-282-2868.Learn more about the practice by visiting the website at https://gsodentist.com.