The Tooth-Colored Filling Procedure

Regarding dental restorations, the days of conspicuous metal fillings are gone. Thanks to advances in dentistry, tooth-colored fillings have emerged as a more aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking option. Tooth-colored fillings are made from a composite resin material that closely matches the color of your natural teeth. Unlike traditional metal amalgam fillings, which contain a mixture of metals, tooth-colored fillings offer a more natural and aesthetic appearance. At Amin Tabatabaian D.D.S. PLLC, they are designed to restore the integrity and function of a decayed or damaged tooth while maintaining the natural beauty of your smile.

The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Aesthetics and Confidence

One of the most significant advantages of tooth-colored fillings is their ability to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. The composite resin material used in these fillings can be color-matched to match the exact shade of your tooth, making them virtually indistinguishable. This aesthetic advantage boosts your confidence, allowing you to smile, talk, and laugh without self-consciousness about visible dental restorations.

Preservation of Tooth Structure

Tooth-colored fillings require minimal removal of healthy tooth structure. Dentists can precisely prepare the cavity by removing only the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth, preserving more of your natural tooth structure than metal fillings. This preservation helps maintain the strength and longevity of your teeth.

Mercury-Free and Biocompatible

Unlike traditional metal amalgam fillings, tooth-colored fillings are mercury-free. This eliminates concerns about potential mercury exposure, providing peace of mind for patients. The composite resin material is also biocompatible and well-tolerated by the body, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

The Procedure for Tooth-Colored Fillings

Before the filling procedure begins, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to ensure the area around the tooth is numb. This helps minimize any discomfort or sensitivity during the treatment. Using a dental drill, your dentist will carefully remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth. The drill removes the affected area while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. Once the decay or damage is removed, the tooth is prepared to receive the tooth-colored filling. The dentist will thoroughly clean the area to ensure no debris or bacteria remain.

Tooth-colored fillings are made of a composite resin material that can be custom-shaded to match the color of your natural teeth. The dentist will apply the resin in layers, carefully shaping and sculpting it to fill the prepared cavity. Each layer is hardened using a special curing light before adding the next layer. After applying the composite resin, the dentist will bond it to the tooth using a strong adhesive. They then shape and contour the filling to achieve the desired shape, size, and alignment with the surrounding teeth. The dentist will also check and adjust your bite to ensure a proper fit.

Tooth-colored fillings offer a natural and aesthetically pleasing solution for dental restorations. With their ability to seamlessly blend with your natural teeth, these fillings restore your smile's functionality and beauty. If you have a decayed or damaged tooth needing restoration, visit Amin Tabatabaian D.D.S. PLLC at 5701 Northeast Bothell Way Suite 3, Kenmore, WA 98028, or call (425) 486-9233 to learn more about the benefits of tooth-colored-fillings.