Tooth-Colored Fillings – Gainesville, GA
We Can Seamlessly Treat Your Cavities
In the old days, when your dentist told you that you had a cavity, your only option was to get it filled with a mixture of different metals known as amalgam. These kinds of fillings have been known to result in various adverse side effects and risks. Thanks to advancements in modern dental technology, we can seamlessly treat your cavities without compromising your appearance. Not only are tooth-colored fillings in Gainesville able to blend in with your tooth, but they’re also much safer. When you hear Dr. Her tell you that you have a cavity, rest assured that we can treat it without marring your beautiful smile.
Why Choose Lifetime Dental of Gainesville for Tooth-Colored Fillings?
- Restorations That Blend into Your Smile
- Mercury- and Metal-Free Cavity Repair
- Can Last Several Years with Proper Care
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Made Of?
Tooth-colored fillings are made from a highly malleable substance that closely resembles a putty. This material is called composite resin. It is comprised of fine particles of glass and acrylic and can be hardened using a special ultraviolet light. Composite resin is not only biocompatible, but it’s also incredibly durable and easy to maintain, having the potential to last for years when it’s properly cared for. During your appointment, Dr. Her will use a shade guide to determine exactly which color of the resin most closely matches the existing enamel of your damaged tooth.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings vs. Metal Fillings
One clear advantage of tooth-colored fillings over their amalgam counterparts is that they have the ability to blend in with the rest of your smile. However, they come with more than just aesthetic benefits. Here are a few of the other advantages that tooth-colored fillings offer:
- More conservative treatment. Amalgam fillings don’t bond with your natural tooth enamel, which means that more of your tooth structure must be carved out in order to secure the filling. Since composite resin is biocompatible, you get to retain more of your natural tooth structure for longer.
- Less temperature sensitivity. Without directly bonding to your tooth, metal fillings aren’t able to protect the sensitive inner portion of your tooth (where the nerve is housed) from becoming irritated by hot and cold foods and drinks. On the other hand, composite resin blocks off these nerves, preventing painful sensitivity.
- Better protection against future decay. With a powerful bond that’s tightly sealed, your affected tooth will be better protected against harmful bacteria that cause cavities.
How Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Placed?
Rest assured that your dentist in Gainesville will do everything in his power to help you feel comfortable during your appointment. To begin the process of getting a tooth-colored filling, we’ll first numb you up to ensure you don’t feel any discomfort during the procedure. We will then remove any debris and decayed portions of your tooth. Next, using a shading chart, we’ll select the precise color of composite resin that will seamlessly blend in with your existing enamel and fill the cavity with the resin. Once we have sculpted the resin to fill your cavity and match the natural shape of your tooth, we’ll use a UV curing light to harden it into place. Lastly, we’ll check your bite to make sure the filling feels natural. We’ll then make any final adjustments if need be and send you on your way to enjoy your new and improved smile!
If you have a cavity that needs treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us. We can help repair your smile without drawing attention to it!