Repair Your Teeth, No Metal-Mouth Required
Are you trying to address tooth decay without filling your teeth with uncomfortable, unattractive metals? The Bridgeville, PA cosmetic dentists at DiBartola Dental offer tooth-colored dental fillings as an alternative to traditional silver (amalgam) and gold fillings. With tooth-colored dental fillings, problems like cavities can be addressed without patients having to deal with metal in their mouths.
What Are Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings?
Tooth-colored dental fillings, also known as composite fillings, are made of a blend of plastic and glass particles. They are used to fill cavities, repair chips, cracks, and other minor dental problems. Unlike silver and gold fillings, tooth-colored fillings closely match the natural color of teeth, providing a more discreet and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings offer several advantages over traditional silver (amalgam) and gold fillings, including:
Mercury-Free
Tooth-colored fillings are mercury-free, making them a safer option for dental restorations.
Unlike silver fillings that contain mercury, there is no risk of exposure to this toxic substance with tooth-colored fillings.
Aesthetic Appeal
Tooth-colored fillings blend in with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible. Unlike silver and gold fillings, which are noticeable when you smile or laugh, tooth-colored fillings are an aesthetically pleasing option. They can also be customized to match the color of your natural teeth, creating a seamless restoration that is virtually indistinguishable from your surrounding teeth.
Minimal Removal of Healthy Tooth Structure
Traditional silver and gold fillings require more removal of healthy tooth structure, which can weaken the tooth and lead to further dental problems. Tooth-colored fillings bond directly to the tooth, requiring less removal of healthy tooth structure and preserving the tooth’s strength.
Durability and Longevity
Tooth-colored fillings bond to your tooth, creating a strong and long-lasting restoration. Unlike silver and gold fillings, which can expand and contract with temperature changes, causing them to crack or break, tooth-colored fillings are less prone to this kind of damage. With proper care and maintenance, tooth-colored fillings can last up to 10 years or longer.
No Galvanic Shock
Tooth-colored fillings do not cause galvanic shock, discomfort and damage caused by the electric current produced when different types of metal in the mouth come into contact with saliva. Tooth-colored fillings are made of a non-metallic composite material, which eliminates the risk of galvanic shock.
Biocompatible
Tooth-colored fillings are considered biocompatible due to their composition and properties. They are typically made of materials such as composite resin or porcelain, which closely mimic the natural structure of teeth. These materials are non-toxic, non-irritating, and have minimal impact on surrounding tissues, making them compatible with the body’s biological systems and reducing the risk of adverse reactions or complications.
Candidacy for Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings
Tooth-colored dental fillings come highly recommended, but there are a few factors our cosmetic dentists will look for when deciding if you qualify or not.
Factors that determine whether or not you’re a good candidate for tooth-colored fillings include the following:
- Size and Location of The Cavity: Tooth-colored fillings are most effective for treating small to medium-sized cavities in the front or visible areas of the mouth. For larger cavities or those in the back of the mouth, a different type of restoration, such as a dental crown, may be necessary.
- The Extent of Damage: If the damage to the tooth is extensive, such as a crack or break, a tooth-colored filling may not be strong enough to provide the necessary support. In such cases, a dental crown or other restoration may be more appropriate.
- Bite Pressure: Teeth that are subject to high bite pressure, such as molars, may not be good candidates for tooth-colored fillings. In these cases, a stronger restoration, such as a gold or porcelain filling, may be needed.
- Allergies: While it’s very rare, some people may be allergic to the materials used in tooth-colored fillings, such as composite resin or porcelain.
- Cost: While tooth-colored fillings are a popular choice for their improved aesthetics and safety, they may not be the most cost-effective option for all patients. A dentist can discuss the cost and benefits of all available restoration options to help you make an informed decision.
The Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings Process
Consultation
During your consultation, a cosmetic dentist at DiBartola Dental will examine your teeth and determine if tooth-colored fillings are the right option for you. They will also discuss the benefits and limitations of tooth-colored fillings, as well as the cost and insurance coverage.
Preparation
If you decide to get tooth-colored fillings, the cosmetic dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any decay or old filling material. They will then clean and dry the area before placing the filling.
Tooth-Colored Filling Placement
The cosmetic dentist will place the tooth-colored filling in layers, using a special blue light to harden each layer. Once the filling is complete, they will shape and polish it to blend in with your natural teeth.
Aftercare
After getting tooth-colored fillings, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. You should also schedule regular check-ups with your cosmetic dentist at DiBartola Dental to ensure the longevity of your fillings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tooth-colored fillings be used to replace old silver fillings?
Yes, tooth-colored fillings can be used to replace old silver fillings for a more aesthetically pleasing result. In addition, tooth-colored fillings are less invasive and require less removal of healthy tooth structure than silver fillings. Your cosmetic dentist can discuss whether replacing your silver fillings with tooth-colored fillings is the right option for you.
Can I eat and drink normally after getting tooth-colored fillings?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally after getting tooth-colored fillings. However, you may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for a few days after the procedure. Your dentist will give you more specific instructions based on your unique case.
Are tooth-colored fillings more expensive than silver fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings may be slightly more expensive than silver fillings, but many dental insurance plans cover the cost of tooth-colored fillings. Additionally, the comfort and convenience of tooth-colored fillings often more than makes up for the cost. Contact your insurance provider to confirm which costs they can cover and talk to your dentist about any in-office financing options they may provide.
Can tooth-colored dental fillings stain or discolor over time?
Tooth-colored dental fillings are resistant to staining; however, they may experience slight discoloration over an extended period. Factors such as consumption of staining substances like coffee, tea, or tobacco, as well as poor oral hygiene, can contribute to discoloration. Regular dental cleanings and practicing good oral hygiene can help minimize discoloration and maintain the appearance of tooth-colored fillings.
Call DiBartola Dental To Learn About Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings
At DiBartola Dental, our cosmetic dentists are experienced in providing tooth-colored dental fillings that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. If you are interested in learning more about tooth-colored fillings, we invite you to contact our Bridgeville dental office by dialing (412) 221-9440 to schedule a consultation. DiBartola Dental welcomes new and returning patients from Bridgeville and surrounding areas such as Scott Township, Carnegie, Heidelberg, and Upper Saint Clair, PA.