A dental filling is a tooth-colored plastic or metal material that is used to repair damage caused by tooth decay. The dentist will remove the decayed area of the tooth and then fill the cavity with the material of choice. Composite and amalgam fillings are most commonly used. Still, our dentist at Wesley Yemoto DDS, may recommend one over the other for a filling, depending on the tooth's location and other factors.
Types of Dental Fillings
Composite Resin Fillings
In addition to repairing decay, tooth-colored fillings can make minor cosmetic changes to your front teeth. A filling can change the color of a stained or slightly misshapen tooth and correct a little chip or crack in the enamel. The composite material is carefully matched to the natural color of your teeth before application, making the results as seamless as possible. Finally, we can also place white composite resin fillings to mask old silver amalgam fillings for a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Porcelain Fillings
Sometimes, a tooth infection is so severe that the tooth is completely broken down. In these instances, a full-coverage restoration is required. A porcelain filling is a strong and beautiful solution to cover a tooth after removing a cavity. These restorations look natural and blend in seamlessly with the rest of your teeth. Porcelain is a solid material; it is almost impossible to tell the difference between a natural tooth and a restored one. Your dentist can help you find suitable material for your dental needs.
Silver Amalgam Fillings
After your cavities are treated, your dentist will fill the spaces in your teeth with the dental filling material. These filling materials can choose metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. There are some benefits to using silver amalgam fillings instead of other alternatives. Amalgam fillings require less healthy tooth structure to be removed than composite fillings, making them a better option for many patients. They can last up to 15 years when placed and cared for properly.
The Advantages of Fillings
Dentists use composite resin and glass ionomer fillings to restore teeth that are damaged or decayed. These materials are bonded directly to the tooth structure, which helps to strengthen the treated area and prevent further decay or infection. Unlike silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings also improve the aesthetics of your smile. Additionally, composite fillings are chemically bonded to the tooth for superior durability and longevity. Composite fillings can also successfully treat front teeth with mild to moderate decay or damage. This treatment can be completed in a single appointment at our dental office.
A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay to its normal function and shape. To discover more about fillings, visit Wesley Yemoto DDS at 4860 Cherry Avenue #F, San Jose, CA 95118, or call (408) 266-9957.