Tooth colored fillings are called composite restorations and are used to repair damaged teeth affected by decay, fractures or cracks. They enhance your smile by offering a more pleasing and natural tooth-like appearance.
With many types of filling materials to choose from, the best option for your need can be discussed with your dentist. Composite filings and amalgam fillings are widely used today. Because of the opportunity to match a composite filling closely to your natural tooth, they are the more aesthetically pleasing choice for visible areas in your mouth.
Composite restorations can last years and give you a beautiful smile, but cannot be called permanent as they may need to be replaced at some time. In preparing the tooth for a composite filling, less healthy tooth structure is removed and may not weaken the affected tooth as much as amalgam fillings that require more extensive tooth preparation.
Amalgam fillings or “silver fillings” are used to repair damaged teeth affected by decay, fractures and cracks and are primarily used in posterior teeth, where they will not show as easily when you smile. Amalgams may be a filling of choice instead of a composite and the option can be discussed with your dentist.
There is some controversy surrounding the use of amalgam still, due to the amalgam material containing mercury and other metals that may contribute to sensitivity or toxicity. Research to date has not definitely shown risks of having mercury as a component of amalgam dental fillings, however some patients have metal sensitivities and have reported a metal taste after the placement of amalgam fillings.
Both composite and amalgam fillings are usually placed in one appointment, however a composite filling can take longer to place than amalgam. State of the art dental equipment is used to cure or harden the composite filling once the material is placed in the prepared cavity. This equipment and the procedure itself contributes to slightly higher costs associated with composite fillings. Dental insurance may not cover additional costs associated with composite fillings; the dental office staff can determine this after reviewing your insurance.
The tooth is numbed with use of local anesthetic for patient comfort. The dentist will then remove decay in the tooth as necessary. The space is thoroughly cleaned and prepared prior to placing the new filling material. If the decay is deep and close to the nerve of the tooth, a sedative medication will be placed for added protection of the nerve. The composite or amalgam material is then placed, shaped, and polished to restore the tooth to its natural, original shape, and function.
After you leave the office and the numbness has worn off, you may experience sensitivity to cold and sometimes hot. This is temporary, as the tooth will acclimate to the new filling. If you spend time understanding the differences between the various restorative procedures and materials used for each, you will be better informed as to the option best suited for you. Consult the dentist to determine treatment time, cost, functionality, and esthetic value of all available restorative options for you.
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