Cosmetic Fillings
Cosmetic fillings are also called composite, white, or tooth-colored fillings. They are typically used to restore the appearance of your teeth. Traditional mercury fillings don’t look like your natural teeth. However, cosmetic fillings blend perfectly with your natural teeth so others can’t see them.
What Are Cosmetic Fillings Used For?
Cosmetic fillings in Bristol, TN, are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by wear and tear, trauma, or decay. So, they are commonly used to repair chipped teeth, fill minor gaps between your teeth, and repair cavities.
The Types of Cosmetic Fillings
There are different types of cosmetic fillings your dentist in Bristol, TN, might use.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are the most commonly used. They are made of a glass and plastic mixture. Composite fillings are durable and look like your natural teeth.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
Glass ionomer fillings are made of an acrylic and glass mixture. These are usually only used for small cavities that are not in high-pressure bite areas like your front teeth.
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are also called inlays and onlays. They are custom-made dental restorations that are extremely durable and stain-resistant. Therefore, they are the perfect option for filling large cavities. Porcelain fillings also look like your natural teeth and can withstand high forces from biting and chewing.
The Benefits of Cosmetic Fillings
There are plenty of benefits that come with getting cosmetic fillings.
- They look like your natural teeth, so they are virtually invisible.
- They help preserve your tooth structure because they don’t require the removal of as much healthy tooth structure.
- They harden within seconds, so you don’t have a long healing period.
- They are extremely durable and can last up to 10 years or more if they are cared for properly.
- They are safe because they don’t have mercury in them.
- They are biocompatible, so they are well-tolerated by most people, and there is minimal risk of them causing an allergic reaction.
How Are Cosmetic Fillings Applied?
Your dentist will start by performing an initial exam to assess your current needs. The dentist will then numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic. Then, the portion of the damaged or decayed tooth, along with any damaged tissue, will be removed.
The dentist will then prepare the tooth and apply the composite material in layers until the desired size is reached. Each layer will be shaped as it’s applied, and the dentist will use a special light to harden each layer as they go. Once the composite material has hardened, the dentist will shape the composite material to match the contours of your natural tooth. And lastly, the tooth will be polished to make it smooth and shiny so that it blends with your natural teeth.
Caring for Your Cosmetic Fillings
Cosmetic fillings are very easy to take care of. You don’t need any special tools or cleaning supplies to care for them properly. All you need is your normal toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash. Additionally, you can floss and brush your new cosmetic fillings just like you do your natural teeth.
If any of your cosmetic fillings ever break, make an appointment to see your dentist immediately.
Contact Rice Dental Arts – A Reputable Dentist in Bristol, TN
Rice Dental Arts has been serving the Tri-State Area since 1996. Our goal is to provide you with the highest quality dental care in a warm and caring environment. We proudly use advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the best care possible.
If you have dental issues or just have a few questions, please Contact Rice Dental Arts today. We would be happy to help you in any way we can!
