Should You Have a Tooth-Colored Filling?

Different teeth have different jobs, and have different needs. For example, your molars and premolars need to be able to stand up to the pressures of chewing your food. So, when they get a cavity, an amalgam filling, or one made of gold is a good choice. They are both strong fillings and will provide the kind of support those teeth need. While metal fillings are strong, they are noticeable to others. So, if you get a cavity in an area that is visible to other people, you may want to talk to our dentist, Dr. Paul Lee about using a composite, or tooth-colored filling.

Composite fillings are a mix of acrylic resin and powdered glass. They can be shaded to blend in with the surface of the rest of your tooth. However, they must be placed in layers, and each layer needs to be cured before the next one can be applied. For this reason, composite fillings are usually reserved for smaller cavities in teeth that can be seen by other people, and that do not receive a great deal of pressure from biting or chewing. When the last layer has been cured, the dentist will polish it to help it blend in with the tooth and to make it stain-resistant. But it can be stained over time by dark colored foods and drinks, and your dentist will have to polish it to restore its color. You should continue to brush twice a day and floss once a day, and see your dentist for your routine cleanings and exams.

If you are interested in finding out if a composite filling is right for your cavity, our dentist will be happy to see you. If you would like to make an appointment at Dr. Paul Lee in city, state, feel free to call 703-352-9600 today.