Cosmetic Dentistry
Traditional dental restoratives (fillings) include gold, porcelain, and composite/amalgam. The strength and durability of traditional dental materials continue to make them useful for situations where restored teeth must withstand extreme forces that result from chewing, especially in the back of the mouth.
Newer dental filling materials include ceramic and resin-based composite compounds that mimic the natural appearance of natural teeth. At our office, we have chosen to use the more esthetic composite resin to restore your teeth needing fillings. We are a “silver amalgam-free” office.
The ultimate decision about what to use is best determined in your consultation with the doctor. There are two basic types of dental fillings: direct and indirect.
Direct fillings are fillings placed immediately into a prepared cavity in a single visit. They include composite resins, glass ionomers, resin ionomers, and even amalgam. The dentist prepares the tooth, places the filling, and adjusts it during one appointment.
Indirect fillings generally require two or more visits. They include inlays and onlays fabricated with gold, alloys, ceramics, or composites. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth and makes an impression of the area to be restored. The dentist then places a temporary covering over the prepared tooth. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory that creates the dental restoration. At the next appointment, the dentist will cement or bond the restoration into the prepared cavity and will adjust it as needed.
Bonding is a conservative way to repair slightly chipped, discolored, or crooked teeth. During the dental bonding, a tooth colored filling is placed onto your tooth to improve its appearance. The composite material “bonds” with your teeth, and because it comes in a variety of tooth-colored shades, it closely matches the appearance of your natural teeth. However, bonding can stain and is easier to break than other cosmetic treatments such as porcelain veneers.
Contact us today if you have concerns with your existing fillings or your future needs!
Newer dental filling materials include ceramic and resin-based composite compounds that mimic the natural appearance of natural teeth. At our office, we have chosen to use the more esthetic composite resin to restore your teeth needing fillings. We are a “silver amalgam-free” office.
Direct fillings are fillings placed immediately into a prepared cavity in a single visit. They include composite resins, glass ionomers, resin ionomers, and even amalgam. The dentist prepares the tooth, places the filling, and adjusts it during one appointment.
Indirect fillings generally require two or more visits. They include inlays and onlays fabricated with gold, alloys, ceramics, or composites. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth and makes an impression of the area to be restored. The dentist then places a temporary covering over the prepared tooth. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory that creates the dental restoration. At the next appointment, the dentist will cement or bond the restoration into the prepared cavity and will adjust it as needed.
Bonding is a conservative way to repair slightly chipped, discolored, or crooked teeth. During the dental bonding, a tooth colored filling is placed onto your tooth to improve its appearance. The composite material “bonds” with your teeth, and because it comes in a variety of tooth-colored shades, it closely matches the appearance of your natural teeth. However, bonding can stain and is easier to break than other cosmetic treatments such as porcelain veneers.
Contact us today if you have concerns with your existing fillings or your future needs!
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