Why Choose Carroll R. Butler, DDS Family Dentistry for Tooth-Colored Fillings?
- Made from Durable and Tooth-Colored Resins
- Fully Personalized to Blend In With Your Smile
- Dentist Highly Experienced in Restorative Dentistry
What are
Dental Fillings?
When a cavity is drilled out of a tooth, the resulting hole must be filled to prevent bacteria from multiplying in the area and causing additional decay. In the past, silver / mercury fillings were used, but these have several problems. Over time, metal fillings will:
- Expand and contract, causing gaps that allow bacteria to get underneath the filling
- Crack and leak mercury, causing stains on the teeth and gums
- Cause damage to the tooth they have filled
- Enhance cold and heat sensitivity
Metal fillings are also highly visible. In contrast, tooth colored composite materials can replace old fillings, providing a better seal with the remaining tooth, and are virtually unnoticeable.
What is the
Tooth-Colored Filling
Process?
Dr. Butler can remove your old filling, clean out any additional decay, and make a mold of the tooth to be filled. The composite is created and fitted into the tooth, and a special light is used to bond the tooth and the composite. The filling is then shaped and polished, so your bite is correct, and the tooth looks like your other teeth.
After your filling, you may have slight temperature and pressure sensitivity for a few weeks or months, but the feeling should eventually dissipate. Your mouth may be a little numb if Dr. Butler used anesthetic, so avoid eating until the numbness wears off to avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
How Long Will
My Tooth-Colored
Fillings Last?
A modern filling can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or longer if proper dental hygiene is followed at home and regular visits to the dentist are made. In rare cases the tooth may eventually crack if the filling was used for a very large cavity; in such cases, a crown can be used to restore the tooth and give you many more years of functionality.
Do you have old fillings or a cavity that needs attention? Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
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