Silver Cavity Fillings are Old News | Consider Tooth-Colored Fillings as the Ideal Alternative!

For most people, it remains inevitable that they will suffer from a cavity during some point in their life. In most scenarios, dentists treat this oral condition utilizing a cavity filling made from composite filling materials, or metal.

These types of fillings made from silver, tin, and copper, is what we call “silver amalgam”. Unfortunately, the metal look can appear unsightly or unattractive. As recently as a decade ago, patients could only receive cavity filling with these metal alloy materials. This meant people could see the dental fillings whenever the patient laughed or smiled.

Nonetheless, with intervention from modern materials and modern American dental techniques, we can all now access to tooth-colored fillings. Some patients even elect to replace their old metal fixtures with these tooth-colored composites. They provide a more natural, attractive aesthetic.

Modern Cavity Filling in Modern Dentistry

Filling types vary in complexity, as well as utilized materials. Some patients may receive what we call a direct filling. This where a dentist places the filling into the cavity.

However, some others may receive an indirect filling. This involves the dentist taking a dental impression to create a custom filling that surrounds the cavity.

A modern, composite, tooth-colored filling is comprised of a plastic and glass mixture. Designers shade them to match natural tooth shades. A dentist can affix composite filling into a cavity layer by layer, hardening it with a specialized light. They do this at each level to optimize strength, in addition to durability.

Once the dentist places the filling, they can then polish the composite material. This helps the finalize product look natural while also preventing staining from the foods and drinks that we ingest.

The primary advantage that patients attain through composite cavity filling is obviously the aesthetic appeal. However, these white fillings also bond to the tooth better while helping support tooth structure and preventing tooth decay or breakage. Dentists may even mix shades for the best possible finish to match a tooth’s natural coloration or shade.

Why Choose Composite Bonding and Tooth-Colored Fillings?

Dentists can utilize composite resin for far more than just cavity filling. The glass ionomer cement also remains crucial in various other cosmetic dentistry procedures. A dental specialist may rely on a composite resin to fill in gaps, chips, and cracks in the teeth. Composite resin is the ideal method to make teeth more attractive and healthier while also staying affordable with minimal damage potential.

Nevertheless, with tooth-colored fillings, a dentist applies a small batch of composite resin to attach the fillings. This provides a sticky surface that affixes the initial filling layer. Once this bottom layer sticks, they will then attach each additional layer one by one. When the procedure concludes, the dentist can shape and polish the resin to look and feel cohesive with the remaining teeth.

Amalgam fillings may make people feel self-conscious regarding their smiles. However, with tooth-colored fillings, patients’ teeth remain healthier, with added function while also looking more beautiful.

Natural Colored Fillings | Dr. Andres de Cardenas

Patients have a number of options when attempting to remedy a cavity. No filling imparts objectively better benefits than another. If you suffer from a cavity, it is crucial to consult with a specialist about dental care as soon as possible.

To learn more about cavity filling options from Dr. Andres de Cardenas, contact our dedicated dental practice today!