Bonded Resin Tooth Colored Fillings
At English Rows Dental Group, one of our goals is to help our patients have the best smile along with their oral health. In doing so, we prefer to utilize bonded resin tooth fillings which can be matched to practically any tooth color a person has to keep their teeth and smile as natural-looking as possible.
What are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
For front teeth, tooth-colored fillings are usually made of composite resin and repair dental decay, erosion, or abrasion problems with an undetectable final result. For back teeth, tooth-colored fillings can be used to repair small decay or erosion problems, or replace silver fillings. For larger and more severe cavities, tooth-colored fillings may not be the best answer. Porcelain veneers, ceramic onlays, or crowns and bridges, might be a better solution. For best practices at English Rows Dental Group, metal fillings are avoided.
Key Benefits:
- Natural and aesthetically pleasing
- Safe alternative to metal fillings
- Compatible with dental sealants
- Protects sensitive teeth
- Prevents additional dental decay
- Looks like no damage has occurred to the tooth
What is a Composite Resin (White Filling)?
A composite resin is a tooth-colored plastic mixture filled with glass (silicone dioxide). Introduced in the 1960s, dental composites were confined to the front teeth because they were not strong enough to withstand the pressure and wear generated by the back teeth. Since then, composites have been significantly improved and can be successfully placed in the back teeth as well. Composites are not only used for restoring decay but are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the color of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth.
What are the Advantages of Composites?
Aesthetics are the main advantage since dentists can blend shades to create a color nearly identical to that of the tooth. Composites bond to the tooth to support the remaining structure, which helps to prevent breakage as well as insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes.
How long will a composite last?
- Studies show that composites generally last 7 to 10 years, which is comparable to silver fillings.
I can smile with complete confidence! I can’t now imagine ever being concerned about appearing in photos. It’s just been a new lease of life. Thank you.
Laura H
Patient