Composite (tooth-colored) Fillings
At Pristine Smiles, Knoxville, TN, cosmetic dentist Dr. Z’s filling fill-osophy is grounded in conservation, safety, and esthetics. Our composite (tooth-colored) fillings are a multi-tasking restorative and cosmetic dentistry wonder—but can this treatment help you reach your goals in a single session?
Is a dental filling right for me?
The composite resin used in tooth-colored fillings is the ultimate multitasker. First, composite resin can be used for cavity fillings. So, if you have a minor cavity, you don’t have to worry about metallic spots from amalgam fillings. Really, you might even forget that you have fillings since they are color-matched to your enamel and feel comfortable.
Secondly, tooth-colored fillings can improve the appearance of your teeth, such as:
- Â Â Â Â Improving the color of the teeth and hiding unsightly stains
- Â Â Â Â Restoring chipped teeth
- Â Â Â Â Closing gaps between the teeth
- Â Â Â Â Evening out the size of teeth
As a bonus, composite dental fillings bond directly with the enamel. This reduces the risk of further breakage or damage to the dental structure.
Procedure Expectations
Before any dental procedure, it’s natural to have questions, such as:
- Â Â Â Â What happens when receiving a tooth filling?
- Â Â Â Â Does it hurt?
- Â Â Â Â How long do fillings take?
At our dental office near Maryville, TN, Dr. Z carries out the composite fillings using gentle laser therapy to remove unwanted dental tissue. After prepping the tooth, Dr. Z bonds color-matched composite resin to the teeth—layer by layer—with a bright LED light. After restoring the tooth with composite filling, the teeth and polished and shaped for a seamless appearance and feel.
Treatment Maintenance
Dental fillings are not intended to last a lifetime. So, if (and when) a composite filling fails, it should be redone. If the seal breaks, it leaves the tooth susceptible to new decay.
Also, it’s important to note that your tooth-colored filling might become more evident with time if you consume staining foods and drinks (like red wine, coffee, and tea). While composite material is stain-resistant, enamel is not. But, it’s possible to combat this issue by drinking with a straw and attending regular dental cleanings.
That said, composite restorations and recent advancements in dental technology have enhanced the durability of composite fillings and lessened the requirement for constant maintenance. Modern tooth-colored fillings can be maintained with proper care, and Dr. Z can let you know if you need any updates.
Choose Composite Fillings
Dental needs are often overlooked, but Dr. Z and her Pristine Smiles team elevate dental fillings by offering tooth-colored fillings for cosmetic and restorative properties. Take your first step to a better smile by scheduling dental sealants in Knoxville, TN. Call (865) 693-9474 or message us online.
