Composite (resin) Fillings You could have fillings that matched the natural color of your teeth. Nobody could tell the difference. Would you choose them over metal? We thought so! Both scientific studies and clinical experience have shown that tooth-colored restorations (fillings) are safe. Also reliable and long-lasting. Plus, they look great! Not only do tooth-colored fillings offer an aesthetic alternative to “silver” (dental amalgam) fillings that’s hard to match — they may also allow for a more conservative treatment method that preserves more of the tooth’s structure. When you put these advantages together, it’s no wonder some dentists say we’re moving toward a “post-amalgam” era. There’s No Reason To Fear Colored Fillings Tooth-colored fillings are made of a blend, or “composite.”It contains plastic resins and silica fillers. These substances mimic many of the qualities of natural tooth structure. They have wear-resistance and translucency. Dental composites also help strengthen teeth. Based on looks alone, it’s easy to see why. You’d want a tooth-colored restoration in the front of your mouth. But to understand some of the other advantages composite resins offer — even for back teeth — let’s look a little closer at the tooth restoration process. The Process of Filling a Tooth There are many reasons why a tooth may need to be filled or restored. Decay and chipping are two common ones. No matter which material is chosen, the procedure is almost the same. After the area has been anesthetized the tooth is “prepared.” Therefore, this involves a numbing injection to prepare the nerves. This is done by removing decay and making it ready for the restoration. Therefore, the filling material is placed directly into the tooth. Once it has securely bonded to the tooth structure, the process is essentially complete. Now, here’s the difference: In order to achieve a good structural bond with a traditional amalgam filling, it is often necessary to shape the tooth by making a series of “undercuts” that help hold the material in place. This means that some healthy tooth material must be removed, leaving less of the tooth’s structure intact. In time, the structurally-weakened tooth can be prone to cracking. But composite resin fillings don’t require undercutting. They form an intimate physical and mechanical bond directly to the prepared tooth. This more conservative treatment may ultimately lead to a better and longer-lasting restoration. Don’t be concerned with dental fillings. The tooth is being saved, so to speak. A slight procedure today can save you years of pain. Let Summer Creek Dental help your teeth strive. When Can Tooth-Colored Fillings Be Used? Composite resins are generally appropriate. They are used for small to moderate-sized restorations. So that encompass the most common types of fillings. They are durable and fracture-resistant. Also able to withstand chewing pressure. How much of the tooth needs restoration affects the time. The procedure may be accomplished in just one visit. Alternatively, a large volume of tooth material may be replaced. A part may be fabricated outside the mouth. This is later bonded to the tooth. The best way to determine whether tooth-colored fillings are right for you is to see us. We’ll help you and consult with us. We can explain the appropriate options. We’ll help you select the best way to proceed with treatment. Either way, you’ll be able to achieve a healthy-looking smile.  Contact Us Today Do you need dental fillings Humble TX? Call Summer Creek Dental and make an appointment to see Dr. Tammie Thibodeaux today! You can reach us at (281) 454-2000. Protect your smile. A quick call can save you thousands. Call today!