Tooth-Colored Fillings (Composite Resins): The Aesthetic and Conservative Choice at Schaefer Dental Group in Lansing, Michigan
If you could have fillings that matched the natural color of your teeth so well that nobody could tell the difference, would you choose them over metal? At Schaefer Dental Group, we utilize modern, tooth-colored restorations that are safe, reliable, long-lasting, and look great!
Not only do tooth-colored fillings offer an aesthetic alternative to “silver” (dental amalgam) fillings, but they also allow for a more conservative treatment method that preserves more of the tooth’s natural structure. It’s no wonder many dentists believe we are moving toward a “post-amalgam” era.
What are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings are made of a composite blend of plastic resins and silica fillers. These materials are designed to mimic many of the qualities of natural tooth structure, such as wear-resistance and translucency, and they help strengthen teeth.
The Advantages of Composite Resins
The key difference between composite resins and amalgam lies in the way they bond to the tooth structure:
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Conservative Preparation: Traditional amalgam fillings often require the dentist to create “undercuts” (removing healthy tooth material) to physically hold the filling in place. This structurally weakens the tooth over time and can make it prone to cracking.
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Superior Bonding: Composite resin fillings form an intimate physical and mechanical bond directly to the prepared tooth. This means less healthy tooth material needs to be removed, leading to a more conservative, and often longer-lasting, restoration.
When Can Tooth-Colored Fillings Be Used?
Composite resins are generally appropriate for small to moderate-sized restorations, which encompass the most common types of fillings. They are durable, fracture-resistant, and able to withstand chewing pressure. The procedure can often be accomplished in just one visit to our Lansing dental office.
Whatever the situation, the best way to determine whether tooth-colored fillings are right for you is to consult with us. We can explain the appropriate options and help you select the best way to proceed with treatment, ensuring you achieve and keep a healthy-looking smile.