Tooth-colored Composite Fillings Restore Your Tooth without Compromising your Smile

Years back, when you had a tooth cavity, the only option available to restore your tooth was using amalgam dental fillings. While these metal fillings did the job, they were aesthetically unappealing and could leak mercury vapors, posing significant health problems. Fast-forward to today, most dental offices, including West Portal Family Dentistry, have white dental (composite) fillings, which are safe, effective, and natural-looking in repairing cavities.

What to expect from the dental filling procedure

When you have a dental cavity, repair it immediately before it morphs into a deeper pit. Luckily, treating a cavity is a straightforward and painless procedure that only takes one hour at most.

After establishing the damaged parts of your teeth, the next step is to numb your gums to reduce discomfort during the treatment. Next, the dentist drills out the decayed part and cleans it thoroughly to eliminate bacteria.

Next, we fill out the decayed area with composite resin. We then use a special light to harden the material. Before finishing the procedure, we adjust your filling until your bite feels normal.

After the treatment, your mouth may feel numb until the anesthesia wears off. Other than that, there aren’t any significant risks associated with cavity fillings. However, be sure to keep our contacts within your reach should you have any questions.

The many benefits of white dental fillings

Teeth are supposed to be white, so when you have damaged teeth, the restoration should match the surrounding teeth. Dr. Terri Nguyen recommends composite resin material for fillings because it restores your teeth without compromising your natural smile. White fillings blend with your natural teeth, making them aesthetically appealing — your fillings aren’t conspicuous when you smile.

The other benefits of white fillings include:

• Safe: Composite fillings don’t contain harmful mercury and other metals found in amalgam fillings.

• Durable: Composite fillings are long-lasting because they bond directly with the tooth for maximum support. Also, white fillings seal off the tooth from bacteria that may cause damage.

• Minimally invasive: White fillings preserve your natural tooth as much as possible. The dentist only removes a small portion of the decayed part to create room for the filling.

Taking care of your restored smile

Most people believe that once a filling is placed, it will last for a lifetime. Regardless of the material used, your filling isn’t indestructible. On average, white fillings need replacement after about 10 years — the replacement might be even sooner if we spot signs of wear and tear or damage.

However, observing oral care hygiene can extend the mileage of your fillings. Brush twice a day, floss daily, avoid smoking and limit intake of sugary foods. Also, don’t forget to book an appointment with Dr. Nguyen every six months.

Get tooth-colored fillings from your San Francisco, CA dentist

At West Portal Family Dentistry, we use the latest technology and materials to create safe, effective, and long-lasting dental restorations. White fillings may be a common repair, but it needs the hands of a professional for maximum benefits. To get these natural-looking fillings, please dial (415) 604-9292 to book an appointment with Dr. Terri Nguyen.

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