General & Family Dentistry
Protect Your Teeth with Natural-Looking Fillings
During the 1800s, dentists discovered that silver and other metals were effective for filling cavities and restoring decayed teeth. To improve the flexibility of these materials, small amounts of mercury were added. However, concerns soon arose about the potential health risks of mercury. While the exact level of risk remains uncertain, it became clear that a safer alternative was needed.
Today, dentists like Dr. Geoffrey Johnston and Dr. Niki Johnston use composite resin to restore decayed teeth. These tooth-colored fillings provide a natural, seamless appearance while supporting your oral health and overall well-being.
Amalgam (Metal) vs. Composite Fillings
While some dentists still use silver amalgam fillings, their main drawback is their noticeable appearance. In contrast, composite fillings are tooth-colored and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing option. Metal fillings can be easily seen in your smile and may even cause a dark gray discoloration as the metal seeps into the tooth, which can make some people self-conscious about smiling. Additionally, some patients experience sensitivity or allergic reactions to metal, leading to discomfort when eating hot or cold foods. In these cases, tooth-colored fillings are often the better choice for both comfort and appearance.
Tooth-Colored Dental Restorations Process
For patients seeking a metal-free cavity solution, tooth-colored fillings offer a natural and durable option. These fillings bond directly to your tooth while preserving more of your original enamel, unlike traditional metal fillings. Only the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, helping ensure a longer-lasting restoration.
The process begins with numbing the treatment area for comfort. You may feel slight pressure, but there should be no pain. The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the composite resin is applied in layers until the tooth is restored to its proper size and shape. Composite resins can also repair chipped or broken teeth, providing a strong, natural-looking result. A curing light is used to harden the material, creating a solid bond with your enamel. Finally, the tooth is polished, and your bite is checked for proper alignment.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, tooth-colored fillings can last around ten years. Like natural teeth, they may stain over time. To reduce discoloration, it’s best to limit foods and beverages like coffee or dark sauces, and brush or rinse soon after consuming them.
If you’re looking for a safe, effective, and metal-free way to restore your teeth, schedule an appointment today to restore your smile with a tooth-colored filling.