What are tooth-colored fillings?
A tooth-colored filling is a dental restoration that repairs damaged enamel. Tooth-colored fillings are different from traditional metal fillings in that they mimic the color and light-reflecting properties of your natural teeth. Once the material dries, it blends in with your smile, ensuring no one knows you’ve had any work done.
At Adler Dental Group, we also provide inlays, which are custom, tooth-colored restorations that cover less of your tooth surface than a crown but more surface area than a conventional filling.
What does getting a tooth-colored filling involve?
At Adler Dental Group, getting a tooth-colored filling is a quick, in-office procedure.
At the beginning of your appointment, we conduct an oral exam and take a series of X-rays to assess your tooth and determine the extent of the damage. Afterward, we administer a local anesthetic and use special instruments to remove the decaying portion of your tooth.
Next, we clean the top and sides of your tooth with an antiseptic solution. We then carefully apply a thin layer of composite resin to the top of your tooth. Then, we point a special light at the resin, which causes it to harden and dry. We repeat these same steps multiple times until your tooth achieves its near-original shape and appearance.
After completing the tooth-colored filling, we polish your teeth and provide you with care instructions. The entire process usually takes less than 60 minutes.
What is recovery like after getting a tooth-colored filling?
After you get a tooth-colored filling, we recommend:
- Chewing and biting carefully
- Avoiding acidic foods
- Brushing and flossing gently around the filling
- Using desensitizing toothpaste
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
The length of time that tooth-colored fillings last depends on several factors, including your oral hygiene and the way you bite and chew. Most fillings last 5-15 years*, but it’s possible to extend their lifespan. We recommend brushing and flossing daily and visiting the office two times a year for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning.
To learn more about tooth-colored fillings, make an appointment at Adler Dental Group by calling the office or booking online today.
