Tooth-Colored Fillings – Flint, MI
Natural Solutions for More Aesthetically Pleasing Smiles
Traditional amalgam was once the only solution available to fill in cavities. As more information and research are revealed, the dangers of these durable restorations are causing dentists to offer patients a safer and more effective alternative. As a dentist in Flint, Dr. Chitra Naik is pleased to provide tooth-colored fillings, which are a non-toxic, biocompatible, restorative solution. Using a malleable substance known as composite resin, she can easily clean and fill a decayed tooth in just one appointment, leaving patients with a fully repaired, natural-looking smile. To discover the advantages of tooth-colored fillings in Flint, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Made Of?
No longer will you be expected to have traditional metal fill your cavities. Instead, Dr. Naik uses a tooth-colored solution known as composite resin. Created through a process of blending plastic and glass, its malleable substance makes it possible to not only fill your decayed tooth but also keep more of the natural structure. It is also capable of being color-matched to the color of your tooth enamel, creating a blended look when put into place.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Unlike traditional amalgam fillings that can shine a spotlight on your dental work, tooth-colored fillings offer many great benefits, some of which include:
- A more natural, pleasing aesthetic that enhances your appearance and boosts your confidence
- A solution that is less likely to contract when exposed to hot or cold temperatures, thus, reducing your risk of damage to your tooth structure over time
- The ability to keep more of the natural structure because of how easy it is to shape and mold inside your tooth
The Process of Receiving and Maintaining Tooth-Colored Fillings
When preparing to receive your tooth-colored filling, Dr. Naik will examine your smile to determine if you are a qualified candidate. If so, she will begin by clearing out the decayed areas of your tooth, ensuring it is ready for the composite resin. After color-matching it to the natural shade of your tooth enamel, she will begin to etch the tooth to allow for the resin to better bond with your tooth. After filling it with the composite resin, it will be molded to ensure a tight seal and shaped to blend in with your tooth. Using a specialized curing light, she will hold it in place over the resin to help it harden.
Once your treatment is complete, you will be allowed to return home and resume normal activity. To avoid damaging your filling or causing stains to develop, there are a few things you can do to better maintain your restoration, such as:
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products
- Quit chewing on pens, pencils, and other inanimate objects
- Avoid eating ice or hard, crunchy foods
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day for two minutes, flossing at least once, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash
- Keep your regularly scheduled six-month dental checkups and cleanings to ensure your restoration is in optimal shape