The Benefits Of Tooth Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings offer important benefits, whether you need a new filling or must replace an old one. Dentists Dr. Paul Gibberman, Dr.fillings Lauren Gibberman and Dr. Maria Hodas, who practice family dentistry in Alexandria, VA, discuss several unique advantages of tooth-colored fillings.

What are tooth-colored fillings?

Silver amalgam fillings draw attention to your dental work, while tooth-colored fillings are designed to blend in with your teeth. The fillings are made of composite resin, a material that's tinted to match common tooth shades. Although early composite resin fillings didn't hold up so well in back teeth, the fillings are much more durable today and can be used to restore any tooth affected by decay.

Tooth-colored fillings make filled teeth stronger

Removing part of your tooth, even if the step is absolutely necessary to remove tooth decay, weakens the structure. Weaker teeth are more likely to break or crack, which can result in the need for more extensive dental procedures in the future. Unlike silver amalgam fillings, tooth-colored fillings bond to your teeth and help strengthen them.

Tooth-colored fillings also help you avoid cracks that can occur eventually if you have silver amalgam fillings. The metals in amalgam fillings expand and contract when they're exposed to hot and cold temperatures. Over time, constant expansion and contraction can stress your tooth and cause it to crack. Cracks increase the risk of fracture and may provide a convenient entry point for bacteria. Because composite resin fillings are made of powdered glass and resin, they don't react to changing temperatures.

Color changes aren't a problem with composite resin fillings

Large silver amalgam fillings can be visible underneath your tooth enamel, making your tooth look darker. When your filling is tinted to match your tooth color, there are no visible changes to your tooth.

Tooth-colored fillings restore your teeth without changing their appearance. If you're concerned about a toothache, schedule a visit with the family dentistry team at Gibberman Dental in Alexandria, VA. Call Dr. Paul Gibberman, Dr. Lauren Gibberman and Dr. Maria Hodas at (703) 823-6616 to make an appointment.

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