Tooth-Colored Fillings

WHAT ARE TOOTH-COLORED FILLINGS?

Most of us know what a cavity is — it’s a somewhat common problem that is created when bacteria eats away at your dental enamel. In the past, cavities were filled with a material called amalgam, which is a combination of metals, including mercury or silver. With time, we’ve come to learn that amalgam fillings don’t actually bond fully with the enamel, and in fact, the mercury can be dangerous to your health. At R. Asher Henegar, D.D.S., P.A. in Colorado Springs, CO, dentist Dr. Asher Henegar uses tooth-colored fillings made from a composite resin to fill and protect cavities. Not only do these secure to the enamel better, but they are more attractive. Dr. Henegar can also remove old metal fillings and apply tooth-colored fillings to help prevent problems in the future.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN GETTING TOOTH-COLORED FILLINGS

Receiving a tooth-colored filling at R. Asher Henegar, D.D.S., P.A. is generally a quick treatment. The treatment area will be numbed to help you feel more comfortable, and other forms of sedation can be considered for any anxieties or fears to help keep you relaxed. From there, the decayed enamel is removed using a dental drill that Dr. Henegar will select based on where your cavity is located and the amount of decay present. Once the enamel is treated and your tooth is cleaned, the cavity will be replaced with the composite resin material and hardened. Dr. Henegar will smooth the filling so it feels comfortable and matches your other teeth. After your appointment, you might experience sensitivity when eating or drinking cold or hot items, however, this should subside on its own. If after a few days the filling feels uneven or high, please contact our office. Your filling can be cleaned by following a regular home care routine, including daily brushing and flossing. When you return for your annual dental examination, Dr. Henegar will assess your filling and decide if it needs to be replaced or repaired at any point.

TOOTH-COLORED FILLINGS FAQS

Should I replace my metal fillings?

Although a previous dentist may have used metal fillings because they were the best option at the time, our composite resin is stronger and much more aesthetically pleasing. Dr. Henegar can replace your old metal fillings with tooth-colored material — so your teeth appear completely natural.

Will I have sensitivity afterward?

Some patients experience tooth sensitivity after a procedure to get tooth-colored fillings. This is a normal and temporary part of the process. The extent of the sensitivity varies from person to person, but our team at R. Asher Henegar, D.D.S., P.A. can provide ways to make recovery more comfortable.

How long do tooth-colored fillings last?

Composite resin is strong and durable, which helps it last for many years with proper care at home in Colorado Springs, CO. We suggest brushing and flossing daily, in addition to visiting us every six months for a professional cleaning. This also gives us the opportunity to make sure your fillings are long-lasting.

FILL IN FOR BETTER HEALTH AND AN ATTRACTIVE SMILE

Cavities in the teeth may start as a normal issue, but it is important to have them fixed before they become a more expensive problem. At R. Asher Henegar, D.D.S., P.A. in Colorado Springs, CO, tooth decay and cavities can be corrected with dental fillings. Dr. Henegar matches the shade of your teeth so you can have a healthy, beautiful smile. If you suspect you or a family member have a cavity or would like help seeing if your insurance will cover your filling(s) in part or whole, contact our office today.

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PHOTO GALLERY

3 Tooth-Colored Fillings Procedure Pictures