A dental filling, also known as a restoration, is used to restore the integrity and function of a tooth structure that is typically lost from caries or external trauma. Fillings can also be used to close minor spaces between teeth for esthetics purposes.
Fillings used to restored with a silver material called amalgam; however, most dentists use a composite material that will match the natural shade of your tooth. In U Smile Dentistry we only use Composite as a filling material.
Composite resins, or tooth-colored fillings, provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth. They are a good choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural.
It generally takes longer to place a composite filling than it does for a metal filling. That’s because composite fillings require the tooth be kept clean and dry while the cavity is being filled. Tooth-colored fillings are now used more often than amalgam or gold filling, probably due to cosmetics. In a society focused on a white, bright smile, people tend to want fillings that blend with the natural color of their teeth.
Ultimately, the best dental filling is no dental filling. Prevention is the best medicine. You can dramatically decrease your risk of cavities and other dental diseases simply by:
- brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- flossing daily
- eating a balanced diet
- visiting the dentist regularly.
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