Tooth-colored Fillings Questions
Serving Salt Lake City, Park City and surrounding Utah communities.
Why are tooth-colored fillings preferred over the old amalgam (silver) fillings?
There are many reasons why Dr. Johnson prefers to use tooth-colored fillings in his Park City, Utah cosmetic dental practice. Silver (mercury) fillings have been used for decades; however, recent and ongoing research shows that due to the expansive nature of this material, fractures and cracking of teeth often occurs. Teeth restored with old silver fillings do not reflect light, and, therefore, give the appearance of darkened, gray teeth. Additionally, the mercury in these fillings has been shown to have systemic effects on the immune system. We do not feel silver fillings are the safest and best choice anymore, and that is why we only use tooth-colored (white) fillings on our cosmetic dentistry patients.
What are the tooth-colored fillings made of?
They are made of a light-cured resin. The filling is initially a soft putty-like resin that gets hardened in the mouth with a curing light.
Can you change my silver fillings into tooth-colored fillings?
Unless there is a cavity or cracks in your old silver fillings, it is not usually recommended to change all the silver fillings to tooth-colored fillings. The actual drilling process to remove silver filings may be irritating to the tooth, so it is not advisable to undergo unnecessary dental work.
How will the tooth-colored fillings look in my mouth?
Tooth-colored filling material comes in a great number of colors (shades) and is matched to your individual tooth color. Typically, a different type of material is used for front and back teeth. The materials used for front teeth have a high shine, and materials used for back teeth are designed for strength and durability. But both look great! You will be amazed at having fillings that are virtually undetectable.
How long do the white fillings last?
Tooth-colored fillings are harder and more durable than silver fillings, and a small filling could last your lifetime. The compression and bonding strength of resin materials has improved greatly over the years increasing their life span significantly.
Larger fillings may last many, many years. The factors that determine the longevity of the filling include the tooth, the size of the filling relative to the tooth, and how teeth are maintained and cleaned daily.
How will tooth-colored fillings feel in my mouth?
A new filling should feel natural, just like your own teeth. After the anesthesia has worn off and you can feel your teeth and bite again, you should not notice anything particularly different. Your filling should be smooth and comfortable.
If you would like to learn more about how tooth-colored fillings can be used to fix your dental problems, please contactDr. Johnson and his staff in Park City, Utah today to schedule your initial consultation.
