What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings? A Guide for Omaha Families
Tooth-colored fillings have revolutionized aesthetic dental treatments, offering a natural-looking solution that blends seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth. When it comes to dental care, appearance and function are important. This guide explains what tooth-colored fillings are, how they work, and why they are an excellent choice for both adults and children in Omaha.
Introduction to Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are made from a special mixture of materials, including plastic and very fine glass particles. Unlike traditional metal fillings, this combination allows the fillings to match the color of your natural teeth, which makes them look more appealing, especially in visible areas. The plastic helps the filling bond directly to your tooth, providing strength and support. Overall, these materials are designed to keep your smile looking natural while effectively repairing any cavities or damage, and that is why, according to the ADA, tooth-colored fillings are used more often than amalgam or gold fillings.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
- Aesthetic Appeal: The most striking advantage of tooth-colored fillings is their natural look. They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them perfect for fillings in the front teeth and other visible areas, providing a reassuring aesthetic quality.
- Durability: Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, providing robust support to its structure. They are durable and are suitable for small-to-midsize fillings as they can withstand moderate pressure that comes from chewing.
- Tooth-Sparing Preparation: Tooth-colored fillings require less removal of your tooth structure than amalgam fillings. This minimally invasive approach helps preserve more of your natural tooth, which benefits long-term dental health.
Application Process
The process of applying a tooth-colored filling is simple and efficient, generally taking just one visit to complete. The composite material is layered into the tooth after removing decay and cleaning the affected area. Each layer is hardened under a special light and shaped to fit your tooth. Once completely hard, the filling is polished to prevent staining and early wear, making it a perfect blend with natural teeth.
When, Where, and Why to Choose Tooth-Colored Fillings
Cost Considerations: While tooth-colored fillings may be more expensive than traditional metal fillings, they offer significant aesthetic and health benefits. Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of tooth-colored fillings, making them a viable option for many patients. Composite fillings are particularly suited for the visible parts of the teeth, like the front teeth, because of their natural look. However, their versatility makes them suitable for use anywhere in the mouth. They are ideal for patients who prefer their fillings to look more natural, especially in cases where the aesthetic is as important as functionality. They are mercury-free, reducing health concerns associated with metal fillings, and their bonding process can help restore most of the tooth’s original physical integrity. Their popularity continues to rise as more patients become aware of the health and cosmetic benefits they offer.
Choosing a dental solution that offers both functionality and a natural appearance is crucial. Tooth-colored fillings meet these needs and are particularly advantageous for children or teens who might feel self-conscious about metal fillings in their teeth. At Lindgren Dental, we tailor dental treatments to meet the specific needs of each family member, ensuring that every visit is as comfortable and effective as possible.
Choosing the Best for Your Family’s Dental Health
Do you or one of your family members need a cavity filled? Tooth-colored fillings are a safe, effective, and aesthetically pleasing option for dental restoration. At Lindgren Dental, we are committed to providing our patients in Omaha with the best in dental care technology.
Schedule Your Consultation at Lindgren Dental Today
Don’t wait to improve your smile. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation to find out if tooth-colored fillings are right for you and your family. Experience the perfect blend of beauty and function with our expert dental care.