Composite, Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings

Dental Fillings – What and Why?

Dental fillings are used to restore the health and structure of decayed and damaged teeth. Cavities in your teeth cause holes or voids in the tooth structure, which need to be filled. If left untreated, saliva, food particles and bacteria can enter the inner surfaces of the tooth causing further decay and damage to the tooth. If caught soon enough, a cavity can be fixed with a dental filling, rather than a much more invasive procedure like a dental crown or root canal. At Zen Dental, we make use of tooth-colored fillings that are not only more aesthetically pleasing, but also healthier and stronger than their metal counterparts.

Types of Dental Fillings

There are two main varities of dental fillings, tooth-colored or silver. The color difference is due to different materials being used. 

Tooth-colored fillings, also known as Composite Fillings, are made using a mixture of quartz or glass filler in a resin medium. They are specially designed to withstand moderate chewing pressure and are highly durable and resistant to fractures.

Silver fillings, also known as Amalgam Fillings, have several disadvantages. Since metal is sensitive to temperature changes in the mouth, these fillings can wear down, break or leak, making the teeth prone to cavities again. They can also cause discoloration on the gums and teeth when they leak. On the other hand, tooth-colored fillings are bonded directly to the teeth to give a natural-looking, superior, tight fit that adds to the strength of the tooth and keeps it intact.

Dental Filling Process

The process of treating your teeth with composite dental fillings begins with the removal of any existing fillings and/or decayed portions. Once the tooth is clean, a filling material that matches the natural color of your tooth is applied. The filling hardens with the use of a special dental curing light and is then shaped and polished to give a natural appearance to the tooth. We make sure that your bite is normal after the filling is placed, and then you’re ready to resume your normal activities as usual.

If your smile is being affected by dark-colored metal fillings or if you have cavities that need treatment, you may be an ideal candidate for tooth-colored fillings. Please contact our office to schedule an appointment with our dental care experts.