Are you resigned to having silver/mercury, or amalgam, every time you need a filling? Have you come to expect this as your only option–or as your only affordable option? We at Galleria Dental Aesthetics are excited to tell you about tooth-colored fillings and why you should choose them over amalgam fillings.
In the past, tooth-colored fillings were not strong enough for back teeth, so were used as fillings on front teeth only. But the technological improvements in the materials used to create tooth-colored fillings have advanced considerably since those days. Today’s tooth-colored, or white fillings as they are often called, are remarkably strong and effective.
Composite resin, most often associated with tooth-colored fillings, looks, feels, and functions like your natural teeth. This material can be used to fill your teeth in one visit and can be shaped by the dentist as he places it.
Another great reason to choose tooth-colored fillings is that they do not adversely react to hot and cold foods like amalgam can. This means your teeth are much less likely to crack over time due to the type of filling material used and it’s adhesive properties.
One alternative for tooth-colored fillings are porcelain inlays and onlays. These require two visits and must be made in a laboratory. Both porcelain and composite resin can be colored to match your teeth. Each has benefits over the other, and your dentist can help you decide which material is the better choice for your particular restoration.
For more information from top rated cosmetic dentists about choosing tooth-colored fillings in Tysons Corner, Alexandria and Northern Virginia, please contact Galleria Dental Aesthetics for a personalized evaluation.