Tooth Colored Fillings

What are tooth-colored fillings?

Tooth-colored fillings are also known as porcelain or composite resins, types of materials that effectively repair cavities and cracks in your teeth. These fillings are durable and help strengthen your teeth while resisting fractures when you chew.

The team at Emery & Scuro DMD, PC, uses tooth-colored fillings on both front and back teeth. To ensure the fillings look natural, the providers match the color of your existing teeth, so your dental work is less noticeable to others.  

When do I need tooth-colored fillings?

You may need tooth-colored fillings if you develop a cavity or crack in your tooth. The filling material hardens and strengthens your natural tooth to prevent pain, infection, and further tooth decay.

You may also be a candidate for tooth-colored fillings if you have silver or gold fillings that you aren’t happy with. Silver and gold fillings don’t look as natural as the tooth-colored versions and are more noticeable. If you’re embarrassed by your old fillings, the Emery & Scuro DMD, PC team can determine if tooth-colored fillings are an option for you.

Depending on the severity of your tooth damage, you may not be able to use the composite resin of a tooth-colored filling for a repair. Your Emery & Scuro DMD, PC provider evaluates the extent of the damage to determine the best course of treatment.

What can I expect when receiving tooth-colored fillings?

Whether you’re treating a new cavity or replacing old fillings, your Emery & Scuro DMD, PC provider takes time to assess your overall health. They also must prepare your tooth to receive the filling by removing decay and cleaning the affected tooth.

To ensure the composite material sets properly, the team must keep your tooth dry and clean before applying a dental adhesive. After the adhesive is in place, your provider places several thin layers of the tooth-colored composite on the tooth. They use a special light to harden the material in a minute or less.

If you need to repair a cavity or want to replace an old filling with tooth-colored fillings, call Emery & Scuro DMD, PC, or request an appointment online today.