Tooth-coloured fillings, also known as composite fillings, have revolutionized dentistry in recent years. These fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and glass materials and are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural colour of your teeth. They have gradually replaced traditional metal amalgam fillings as the go-to option for cavity treatment. The primary purpose of tooth-coloured fillings is to restore the integrity and function of damaged teeth, while also providing an aesthetically pleasing result.
Tooth-coloured fillings, also known as composite fillings, are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, cracks, or fractures. These fillings are made of a mixture of tooth-coloured plastic and glass particles, which blend well with the natural colour of the tooth. The primary purpose of tooth-coloured fillings is to restore the structural integrity and function of the tooth while providing a natural appearance. Here are the key purposes of tooth-coloured fillings:
- Restoring Tooth Structure:
- Tooth-coloured fillings are used to repair teeth that have cavities or decay. The filling material bonds directly to the tooth structure, restoring its strength and preventing further decay.
- Aesthetics:
- One of the primary advantages of tooth-coloured fillings is that they match the natural colour of the teeth. This makes them an excellent choice for repairing cavities in visible areas, as they blend seamlessly with the surrounding tooth enamel, providing a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Preserving Healthy Tooth Structure:
- Unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure. This means that more of the natural tooth can be preserved, promoting long-term oral health.
- Bonding Capabilities:
- Composite fillings chemically bond to the tooth structure, which helps to support the remaining tooth, preventing fractures and insulating against temperature changes.
- Versatility:
- Tooth-coloured fillings can be used for various purposes, including repairing small to medium-sized cavities, reshaping chipped teeth, closing gaps between teeth (diastemas), and even changing the shape or colour of a tooth for cosmetic purposes.
- Reduced Sensitivity:
- Tooth-coloured fillings cause less sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures compared to traditional metal fillings. This is because composite material does not expand and contract with temperature changes like metal fillings do.
- Conservative Treatment:
- Composite fillings allow for a more conservative tooth repair process. Dentists can preserve more natural tooth structure while preparing the cavity, leading to a stronger, healthier tooth in the long run.
- Biocompatibility:
- Tooth-coloured fillings are non-toxic and biocompatible, making them a safe choice for dental restorations. They do not contain mercury, which is a component of traditional silver amalgam fillings.
It’s important to note that the choice of filling material depends on several factors, including the extent of the tooth damage, the location of the tooth, and the patient’s preferences. Our NW Edmonton dentists at Smile Zone consider these factors when recommending the most suitable filling type for each case.