Dental fillings are one of the most common forms of tooth restoration. Dentists use fillings to repair a tooth's surface when a minor cavity or lesion has compromised it. Fillings restore the tooth’s strength, preserve its natural appearance, and protect it from further damage.
Materials Used in Dental Fillings
Dental fillings can be made from different materials. The material used in a filling varies based on the extent of the damage and the tooth’s location in the mouth. Dental fillings fall into two broad categories:
- Amalgam — Composed of metals like silver, tin, and copper, amalgam fillings are durable and affordable. As they are not aesthetically pleasing, amalgam fillings are ideal for less visible teeth in the back of the mouth, where strength and durability are more important.
- Tooth-colored Composites — Though not as strong as amalgam, tooth-colored composite fillings are an excellent solution for visible teeth because their color can be customized to fit seamlessly into a person’s smile.
Differences Between Tooth-Colored and Traditional Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings are popular in cosmetic dentistry because they can restore a tooth’s function while maintaining the smile's natural look. They are typically made from composite resin or porcelain, which can be customized to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. This makes them a more discreet and aesthetically pleasing solution for visible teeth than traditional fillings like silver amalgam.
Let’s quickly break down the most common types of tooth-colored fillings:
- Composite resin — a mixture of glass or quartz that can be shaded to match the color of natural teeth. It is less durable than amalgam but favored for fillings in prominent locations in the smile.
- Porcelain — Another popular option due to its excellent durability and aesthetics. It’s worth noting, however, that porcelain is among the most expensive dental filling options available.
Dental Filling Procedures: Quick and Efficient Smile Restoration
Dental filling procedures are usually quick and straightforward. These routine treatments seldom require more than one visit.
During the procedure, the dentist prepares the tooth’s damaged area. Once the area is ready for the filling, the dentist applies a quick-drying cement containing the filling to the tooth. The longevity of dental fillings varies significantly, with some requiring retreatment within about five years, while others last two decades or more! However, well-applied and properly maintained fillings should be expected to last at least a decade.
Top-Quality Tooth-Colored Fillings in Winter Springs, FL
If you’re in the Winter Springs area and need an experienced and highly skilled dental care team to help restore your smile’s natural glow with tooth-colored fillings, rather than Googling "dentist near me" and taking your chances, contact Christopher Young and the outstanding Advanced Dental team to schedule an appointment!