Tooth-Colored Fillings – Wakefield, MA
No One Has To Know You Have Dental Fillings
If you’ve ever been treated with metal fillings, you know how they affect your smile. Metal fillings have a dark, unattractive color that stands out against a white smile. In addition, metal fillings lead to other issues such as sensitivity to temperature changes and a lack of support for a tooth’s natural structure. As a result, patients are left with partial functionality and fillings that may develop cracks later on.
Thankfully, Dr. Schumacher offers tooth-colored fillings in Wakefield that provide both cosmetic and restorative benefits over what metal fillings can offer.
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Made From?
Dental materials have come a long way in the last several decades. Now, tooth-colored fillings are made composite resin and silica. The mixture (or "amalgam") of metals that was once exclusively used was problematic in several ways. The most obvious drawback was being very noticeable. Also, metal responds to temperature and chewing pressure very differently from your natural teeth. For example, metal fillings contract and expand a faster rate when you eat something hot or cold. This puts pressure on the surrounding tooth structure and can lead to cracks and fractures. Composite resin and silica respond more like enamel, keeping your teeth healthier over time.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
The primary benefit of tooth-colored fillings is that they can be shaded to blend with your smile’s natural color. As a result, only you and our team ever know about your treatment. And, as mentioned, tooth-colored fillings deter breakage and insulate against changes in temperature.
Also, since they support the tooth’s remaining structure, Dr. Schumacher can make this type of filling smaller than a metal filling would be. This makes tooth-colored fillings a more conservative solution overall because patients keep more of their natural tooth. The more tooth structure that can be retained, the better your dental health will be in the future.
How Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Placed?
First, Dr. Schumacher will make sure the area is fully numb so that you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. Then he'll remove the damaged portion of your tooth and prepare it to be filled by thoroughly cleaning it and making sure it's dry. Next, after he's placed the composite material into the empty space, he'll spend time shaping it so that it looks and feels very natural. Finally, he'll use a special "curing" light to harden the material. Your filling will be completely set when you leave, so you can eat and drink normally as soon as your numbing has worn off.
Caring For Your Tooth-Colored Fillings
Fortunately, taking care of your tooth-colored fillings is straightforward and doesn't require anything out of the ordinary. First and foremost, brush at least twice each day and floss once. It's also helpful to swish with a fluoride (anti-cavity) mouthwash twice a day for added protection. Also, be sure to see Dr. Schumacher for regular checkups and cleanings. These visits are a chance for him to monitor your teeth and dental work, make sure that everything is functioning the way it should, and catch problems as early as possible.
Would you like to learn more about this cosmetic and restorative solution? Call our dental office in Wakefield today to reserve your appointment with Dr. Schumacher.