Tooth-Colored Fillings

If you’ve never had a cavity, consider yourself one of the lucky ones! Most of us encounter tooth decay and the need for a dental filling at some point. Perhaps you’ve had a cavity filled with metal amalgam? You’ll be happy to know that metal fillings are a thing of the past.

Today’s material of choice for dental fillings is composite resin, which is easy for Dr. Richard Tom to work with, It can be custom shaded to match the color of your tooth, so your filling is not noticeable.

Why Do I Have a Cavity?

Cavities are the result of decay that eats away your tooth enamel, leaving a hole that we will need to repair. A white film called plaque develops on your teeth when you eat. The bacteria that live inside plaque use sugar as their fuel, which causes them to produce acid as a byproduct. It is the acid that eats away tooth enamel and causes cavities.

You increase your risk of developing cavities when you consume sugary or acidic foods or beverages. Brushing your teeth at least twice per day and flossing at least once eliminates plaque buildup and reduces your risk of developing cavities. 

Yes – you can get cavities in between your teeth, which is why flossing is essential. Regular dental checkups with Dr. Tom will also protect your teeth from tooth decay, which he can detect very early on.

Why We Use Composite Resin

Dr. Tom chooses this versatile material not only for its aesthetic benefits but also for the durability it provides. Composite keeps more of your natural tooth structure intact since it is bonded directly to your tooth.

Metal fillings react to the constant temperature changes in your mouth by expanding and contracting. Over time, this reaction causes your filling to separate from your tooth, allowing bacteria back into it to cause more damage. Composite doesn’t have the same response to hot and cold that metal does, and since it is bonded directly to your tooth, it provides greater durability. 

Dental Bonding

Composite resin material can also be used to restore minor cosmetic imperfections through a process called dental bonding. Composite can be bonded to your tooth to cover issues such as spacing between teeth, chipping, staining, fractures, and oddly shaped teeth.

Bonding is a noninvasive and quick way to enhance your smile. We can typically complete the procedure in one visit with Dr. Tom. It also tends to be less expensive than other cosmetic procedures, making it an affordable way to improve your appearance.

Is it time for your next cleaning and checkup? Give RT Dental a call today to schedule a convenient time for your visit with Dr. Tom.