Silver, mercury and even gold are no longer the gold standards for quality, cost-effective filling of cavities. Today, most patients request tooth-colored fillings. The main benefit of this strong composite material is obvious: It blends well with the natural color of your teeth. But health concerns, as well, often motivate patients to choose this option. Below, trusted San Diego dentist Dr. Jennifer D. Santoro describes the process of filling your cavity with an advanced, resilient and aesthetically pleasing composite.
Twenty-First Century Solution
Although science has never proved a link between the old amalgam fillings that contained mercury and a variety of ailments and medical conditions, patients commonly don’t want to take a chance on this type of cavity filling. In fact, many adults who years ago received one or more amalgam fillings will choose a simple procedure during which Dr. Santoro will remove the old filling and replace it with a new, state-of-the-art composite filling.
These tooth-colored fillings have the added advantage of strengthening the tooth, while metal fillings will expand and contract over time, potentially damaging the tooth or becoming loose. Advanced tooth-colored fillings also require a smaller hole, so a dentist is able to drill less and you will keep more of your natural enamel. Patients with these fillings also report less tooth sensitivity than those with metal fillings.
The Procedure
At Village Center Dentistry, we drill out the decay from the tooth and prepare the new surface for your tooth-colored filling. Once the composite material has been placed and molded to a desired shape, the filling is hardened through the use of a special curing light that is focused on the tooth. Once the composite is cured, Dr. Santoro will adjust your bite so that it feels natural and fits perfectly.
Once you are satisfied with the way the filling feels in your mouth, she will polish the surface to achieve a smoothness and texture that matches your natural teeth. The whole process is performed with a local anesthetic, and depending on the extent, can take as little as 10-15 minutes. If you treat your newly filled tooth well, by brushing and flossing and visiting our office regularly, your tooth-colored filling may never need to be replaced.
Natural Smile
Unlike the old metal-filling technology that essentially remained static for decades, tooth-colored fillings are constantly being reinvented and improved. There are several varieties available to dentists and their patients, and each new innovation seems to bring greater strength, flexibility and durability. Earlier versions of composite materials used in tooth-colored fillings were sometimes not appropriate for filling molars near the back of the mouth. Today, any tooth is a good candidate for this natural, long-lasting solution.
To schedule your appointment, or to learn more about tooth-colored fillings, call Dr. Santoro at (858) 566-8510, or email Village Center Dentistry in Scripps Ranch today.
