Cavities are notorious for making the teeth deteriorate and become hollowed out because of the break down of the tooth’s enamel. If left untreated, this condition could lead to more serious, more painful, and more expensive complications. This is why experts at the Welch Dental Group recommend the use of tooth colored fillings to fill in cavities and prevent the spread of infection. Tooth colored fillings are the preferred material for this procedure because they are safe to use and their porcelain and ceramic composition have very similar physical characteristics to that of the patient’s existing teeth. Their color, texture, and appearance closely resembles that of natural teeth and they react in much the same that they would to the typical pressures inside the patient’s mouth.

Why should I consider tooth colored fillings?

In previous times, metallic fillings were all the rage on the field of dentistry because of the conception that the hard metal consistency was ideal for restoring teeth. In reality, the hardness of the metals rubbing against the porous composition of the teeth was wearing them down faster. This problem was resolved with the use of tooth colored fillings. Their composition is very similar to that of the teeth, making them ideal for restorations such as these. They are also able to create stronger bonds with the teeth, making them more efficient in providing protection, and are more comfortable for the patient for long-term use. Tooth colored fillings are also effective whether they are used in small amounts to fill superficial cavities, or in larger scale restorations or indirect fillings.

What happens during the procedure?

• The affected tooth or teeth can be initially numbed using local anesthesia to reduce the level of discomfort that a patient will experience during the procedure
• The dentist identifies the cavity and drills into the tooth to make room for the filling, and also to eliminate all traces of the infection
• The resulting cavity will be thoroughly cleaned and dried
• An antibacterial agent may be put inside the cavity ensure that no bacteria remains
• The tooth colored filling will be used to fill the hole in small increments to make sure that the entire area is covered thoroughly
• The filling is allowed to dry, or accelerated with the help of intraoral light, and final adjustments to the patient’s bite will be done afterwards

What results are expected from tooth colored fillings?

Tooth colored fillings are highly compatible with the make up of natural teeth and are, thus, effective in rebuilding the tooth structure from the inside out. With proper care, tooth colored fillings can last for a lifetime, giving the patient a natural looking restoration that brings back functionality and aesthetic appeal to the patient’s mouth.