Tooth-Colored Fillings
If a tooth has decay, cracks or fractures, a filling is used to do just what the name implies, seal or fill in the affected area. A filling prevents further damage to the tooth, while restoring its structure, function and, in the case of tooth-colored fillings, its appearance. At Fryeburg Dental Center, our tooth-colored fillings blend in seamlessly with your smile. We ensure the procedure is quick, painless and effective. In fact, we can sometimes treat and fill small cavities using air abrasion technology, which means no needles and no drill! If you suspect you need a filling, schedule a visit with Dr. Pickerell, Dr. Bell or Dr. Ross today.
What are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings, or composite fillings, are a mixture of biocompatible materials that bond to your tooth. After removing tooth decay, we use the tooth-colored filling to seal the hole created by the cavity. Composite fillings can also be utilized to repair cracks or fractures in the teeth. In comparison to silver amalgam fillings, tooth-colored fillings are much more aesthetic and require less drilling for placement, allowing more of the tooth’s natural structure to stay intact. Tooth-colored fillings are also metal- and mercury-free, strong and durable. With proper care, tooth-colored fillings can last for many years.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
01.
Aesthetic
Tooth-colored fillings blend in seamlessly with your smile. No one will be able to tell you’ve had dental work.
02.
Biocompatible
The material used for tooth-colored fillings is safe and biocompatible. It doesn’t contain metal or mercury.
03.
Restores Oral Health
With a tooth-colored filling, we can prevent further damage and rebuild your tooth’s strength. Additionally, less tooth structure needs to be removed for placement.
What to Expect
Dr. Pickerell, Dr. Bell or Dr. Ross will numb the area with anesthetic, if necessary, so you won’t feel a thing. For small cavities, they may use air abrasion technology, which doesn’t always require local anesthesia. Regardless of the method used, Dr. Pickerell, Dr. Bell or Dr. Ross will remove any decay before cleaning and priming the space and filling it with a composite resin that has been matched to the rest of your teeth. They’ll use a curing light to harden the material. After checking your bite and making any necessary adjustments, they’ll shape and polish the filling so that it looks just like your original tooth. Your smile will be as good as new.
Discover a New Dental Experience
Our Fryeburg dentists offer expert, comfortable care for patients of all ages in a beautiful office.
