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White Tooth Filling

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A Guide to White Tooth Filling

White tooth fillings, often called composite fillings, are a common dental restoration method to treat teeth compromised by decay or cavities. The dental procedure helps stop the decay’s source and prevent further damage to the teeth. The white filling material restores the tooth’s structure, functionality, and appearance.

Most people develop dental cavities over time due to plaque build-up and erosion of the enamel. Dentists recommend white filling after cavity treatment to prevent further worsening, tooth loss, sensitivity, and pain. White tooth filling is also popular in Springfield, Eugene because it looks more natural than other filling options. 

Benefits of White Tooth Filling You May Not Have Known

White fillings are a compelling option among dental restoration techniques. The following are some of the major benefits of a white tooth filling:

Improved Aesthetics

White fillings have a notable aesthetic advantage over conventional silver amalgam fillings. White tooth fillings are made of composite resin that looks very similar to natural teeth in color. 

Expert dentists can precisely match the resin’s shade to blend perfectly with the surrounding natural tooth structure. As a result, the restoration is extremely discrete and reduces the filling’s visibility, giving the smile a more pleasing and natural appearance.

Tooth Preservation

Dentists always try to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible when inserting white fillings. Only the decayed area is carefully removed during the cavity removal procedure. 

This helps preserve the general integrity and strength of the patient’s tooth structure. On the other hand, conventional fillings might require the extraction of more tooth structures to make a stable cavity for the filling, possibly eroding the tooth.

Stronger Bond

White fillings use a composite resin material to chemically bond directly to the tooth enamel. As a result, the filling and the tooth structure are firmly and securely connected. In contrast, traditional fillings are merely inserted into the cavity without any bonding mechanism. Therefore, white tooth fillings do a much better job of improving the restoration’s overall stability and longevity.

Should I Replace My Silver Amalgam Fillings with White Ones

Traditional silver amalgam fillings are still a good option for dental restorations, even though white fillings are becoming increasingly popular. The important thing is to make an informed choice by understanding when to use which method. 

Silver amalgam fillings have often been associated with extraordinary durability. Silver fillings have a track record of lasting decades with the right maintenance. However, advances in composite resin technology have made white fillings another durable alternative. When combined with good oral hygiene habits, modern white fillings can last up to ten years, comparable to their silver amalgam counterparts.

Silver fillings are typically more affordable than white ones. The price difference has, nevertheless, decreased recently. Besides, white fillings may not always be successful, and dentists usually do not recommend them for back teeth. Using crowns or inlays would be one way to get around this, but they can be more costly and require more tooth extraction.

Ultimately, any decision to get or change fillings should only be made in consultation with your dental team after examining your dental structure, issues, and replacement conditions. 

Getting White Tooth Fillings Done

If you have already decided upon getting a white tooth filling, the first step is to get an appointment with a licensed, renowned dental practitioner. During this appointment, the dentist will first examine whether a white filling is the best course of treatment for you, considering the extent of the cavity. If so, they will carefully remove the damaged tooth structure and apply the white filling material.

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering getting a white filling done:

  • White Tooth Filling Cost: The material of the composite resin filling, your area’s dental rates, and the dentist’s skills and experiences will influence how much for a white tooth filling you end up paying. Make sure you do your research before setting up an appointment.
  • Alternative Treatment Options: Other treatment options may also be available depending on the cavity’s extent. For instance, a topical fluoride treatment may be enough for small and early cavities. Adhesive dentistry is another option that dentists can do without removing much of the tooth. 

Conclusion

White tooth fillings are a popular option for dental restoration because they offer a strong bond, a natural aesthetic appeal, and effective tooth preservation. However, it is highly recommended that you consult with a qualified dentist to discuss your cavities and possible dental restoration methods. For instance, experienced dentists at Smile Alive Dentistry can evaluate your unique needs, highlight the available treatments, and help you decide if white fillings are the best option for you.