Tooth-colored fillings are designed to restore teeth that have been damaged due to decay, external trauma, or other dental problems. They consist of material that is indistinguishable from the rest of the tooth. Tooth-colored fillings are made of a composite resin material and are used as a restorative treatment for decayed or damaged teeth.
What Are the Types of Tooth-Colored Fillings?
There are two types of tooth-colored fillings:
Resin-Filled Fillings: These fillings are made of a biocompatible plastic material. They are used in cases where the decay is limited. They make it easier to match the color, texture, and shape of the neighboring teeth.
Glass-Ionomer Fillings: These fillings are made of a plastic resin and acrylic mixture and are used when there is severe damage to the tooth. They also provide more strength to the tooth than resin fillings and last longer than resin fillings. Glass-ionomer sealants are used to protect large cavities in the back molars, which do not contact teeth.
What Is the Procedure Involved in Tooth-Colored Fillings?
The procedure for tooth-colored fillings usually takes two appointments to complete. The first appointment begins with a cleaning session, during which the dentist removes all traces of decay from the tooth. Then a topical anesthetic is applied to numb the area being treated. The dentist uses a powerful jet of water to remove decay from the tooth's interior surface. The cleaned surface is then etched, making it rough and ready for the filling material to adhere properly.
After this preparation process, the dentist creates a filling by matching it with the existing tooth color. The filling material is molded, polished, and hardened into place with a special light. The dentist then protects the filling by covering it with a temporary filling until the next appointment. In the next appointment, the temporary filling is removed, and any adjustments to fit or color are made until both you and your dentist are satisfied with the result. Finally, aftercare instructions like brushing and flossing are provided to keep your new filling healthy and prevent any reinfection or decay.
What Are Some of the Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings?
- Tooth-colored fillings offer aesthetic value as they match your natural teeth' appearance.
- They do not cause discomfort and last for several years.
- They provide long-lasting results provided proper care is taken after their installation.
Please reach out to Dicus Family Dentistry at 15 McCabe Drive, #201, Reno, NV 89511, to have a consultation with our dentist. Call us at (775) 828-7246 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.
