Strengthen and Repair Damaged Teeth with Tooth-colored Fillings
If you have moderate dental trauma or decay, Dr. David D. Wyse and Dr. Jay W. Chrisman can provide tooth-colored fillings at their Bloomington, IL, practice. Dental fillings help strengthen your teeth and prevent bacteria. However, tooth-colored fillings provide an added function when compared to metal fillings. Most noticeably, composite fillings from Wyse Family & Cosmetic Dentistry will blend seamlessly with your other teeth, protecting the look of your smile for many years to come.
Dental Fillings: An Overview
A filling is usually appropriate for a small- to medium-sized cavity. If you have significant decay, we may recommend a different restoration, such as an inlay, onlay, or crown. Dr. Wyse or Dr. Chrisman will conduct a visual exam and take x-rays of your tooth to determine the right type of restoration for you.
In years past, metal was the only option when you needed a tooth filled. Dentists still use silver amalgam restorations because they are very strong. Newer composite restorations are almost as durable as metal, and therefore serve as a good restoration option, even on molars, which bear most of the force of your bite.
Placing a Tooth-colored Filling
Before placing a filling, we will numb the affected tooth and any decayed tissue will be removed. Dr. Wyse or Dr. Chrisman will reshape the inside of your tooth and lightly etch the inner walls. This step increases the surface area, so that the filling will bond more securely to your tooth.
When compared to metal, which can eventually show through your teeth, tooth-colored fillings will protect the natural color of your smile.
Next, a shade of composite will be selected that best matches your smile, and the filling will be placed in layers. After each layer has been placed, a curing light will be used to harden the material. Once the cavity is completely filled, we will trim any extra composite, and polish your tooth. The entire process typically takes 30 minutes or less.
After you receive your dental filling, you may experience some slight sensitivity, which will usually subside over the next few weeks. In the meantime, you can eat a diet of soft foods and use anti-inflammatory medications to minimize any discomfort.
Why Choose Tooth-colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings can offer significant benefits in terms of appearance. When compared to metal, which can eventually show through your teeth, tooth-colored fillings will protect the natural color of your smile. Additionally, the material will bond to your teeth more securely than metal, and we will be able to remove less tissue when preparing your tooth to receive the filling.
Finally, traditional metal fillings will expand and contract when exposed to temperature changes. Over time, this constant fluctuation will weaken your teeth. Composite, on the other hand, will never change shape or compromise your dental health.
Schedule Your Appointment
Tooth-colored fillings offer unique cosmetic and functional benefits. If you have a cavity and would like to learn more about tooth-colored fillings, contact our practice today. Meanwhile, be sure to check out our patient reviews.
