Tooth-colored Fillings
Resin-based composite fillings are the most common tooth-colored fillings that are used to restore a tooth to it’s original dimensions after the cavity and diseased tooth structure has been removed.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations
- esthetics–the color/shade of the composite material can closely match the color of the natural tooth.
- bonds to existing tooth structure–the composite material forms a chemical bond with the tooth, providing increased support for the diseased tooth.
- conserves tooth structure–in comparison to tooth preparations for silver fillings, composite tooth preparation is usually less invasive.
Disadvantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations
- longevity–average lifetime for resin-base composite filling is usually less than that of a silver filling.
- sensitivity–some patients reports increased sensitvity after a composite filling is placed.
- cost–tooth colored restorative material is more expensive than the silver filling material.
- requires isolated field–in order for the composite material to bond to the tooth, it is critical to keep saliva, blood, and other contaminants away from the preparation; for this reason, composite may not always be the best restorative option.
Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration
When it is time to have your silver fillings replaced, a tooth colored restoration may be an option for you. Dr. Hardy will discuss the pros/cons associated with transitioning from a silver filling to a tooth colored restoration.