Thinking of Whitening Your Tooth-Colored Fillings? Here’s What You Should Know
Modern dentistry makes it possible for our dentist in North Port, Dr. David R. Smith, to upgrade any smile. One way that our dentist in 34287 can revamp your smile is by offering tooth-colored fillings near you.
Tooth-colored fillings are an amazing restorative treatment that fills cavities and creates a more pleasing and natural smile. This is because tooth-colored fillings near you are made from ceramic and plastic compounds that look exactly like your teeth.
This is why scores of people gravitate towards the tooth-colored fillings or white fillings because they want a more natural smile. In a way, this will help boost your self-esteem while improving your oral health.
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth cavities are a common dental issue that causes your tooth to decay. Tooth decay is brought about by bacteria when they release digestive acids, which attack the tooth’s enamel. Over time, the enamel becomes structurally compromised, leading to holes that we call cavities. So, our dentist in 34287 uses fillings to repair a decayed tooth.
A tooth-colored filling is no different from the other types of fillings in terms of function. However, each type of tooth fillings is made from a different material. Like in our case, tooth-colored fillings are made from composite resin.
They are good fillings as they provide resistance to fractures in small to mid-size cavities because they can withstand moderate pressure from constant chewing stress. Tooth-colored fillings can be used to restore either back or front teeth. If you desire to get fillings that look natural, this is the go-to option.
However, if the cavity is large or subject to heavy chewing pressure, you may need to switch to another material.
Composite resin fillings are a bit more expensive than amalgam, and at times, some insurance plans may not cover them. However, amalgam fillings will last longer. But, it is good to note that no filling lasts forever, so you will inevitably replace them at some point in time.
It will take only one visit for you to get tooth-colored fillings. One of the biggest advantages of getting composite fillings is that less of your healthy tooth will be removed to keep the filling in place. This is because composite resin bonds to the teeth.
The procedure for getting a composite filling is a bit more involving because after our dentist removes the decayed part, your tooth has to be kept isolated from saliva. Then, an adhesive will be applied, followed by several thin layers of tooth-colored resin. Then, each layer is cured for a minute or so with a special light.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Going for tooth-colored fillings can be an excellent idea if you wish to do the following:
- Restore teeth with decay or cavities
- Change the color of stained teeth
- Improve the appearance of split, broken, or cracked teeth
- Close unsightly gaps in the dental arch
- Alter the shape of misshapen teeth
We cannot also forget that the translucent look of composite resin fillings makes them one of the best cosmetic restorations. Plus, they are biocompatible and metal-free, making them ideal for patients who have metal allergies or don’t want to be exposed to mercury.
Additionally, the procedure takes very little time to complete. So, if you need a quick solution, going for composite resin fillings will be a better idea.
Can Fillings Be Whitened?
Almost anyone would love to have a gorgeous bright smile. So, you may be thinking of getting teeth whitening treatment. Probably you must be wondering whether your tooth-colored fillings can be whitened if they get stained or if they can get damaged after you undergo teeth whitening.
The good news is that teeth whitening will not affect your fillings and cause any damage. Unfortunately, you cannot whiten a tooth-colored filling. Hydrogen peroxide, the main teeth whitening agent, can whiten the enamel but not the tooth-colored filling. This is because the same process that the chemicals used to whiten your teeth will not work on fillings, crowns, or veneers.
Therefore, if you desire to have your tooth-colored fillings match your other teeth, you may need to get new fillings. But it is not recommended, though.
In any case, if you have a concern, contact us at Shore Dental, and we would love to answer any of your questions.