Many people fear that a chipped or cracked tooth will remain that way forever. Luckily, tooth colored fillings can not only be used to repair teeth to create a straightened appearance, but can also seal out decay and set you on your way toward having the healthiest smile possible.
What are tooth-colored fillings?
Most fillings used in modern day dentistry are composite resin fillings, or tooth-colored fillings. The resin is made from a mixture of different man-made and natural substances, and is bonded directly to the tooth. This bond restores up to 95% of the natural tooth’s strength, and completely hardens in seconds under a curing light. While these fillings are durable, they are also easily repairable in the case of an incident.
How do fillings hold the line of your teeth?
Since the composite resin can be molded into any shape, chipped teeth can quickly become whole again. Fillings also serve as a permanent placeholder for broken teeth. This means that, in comparison to extraction, no hole is left, and the other natural teeth around the damaged tooth do not move, as they would if it was removed altogether.
What are the pros and cons of tooth-colored fillings?
While there are alternatives, composite resin fillings are so versatile that they are the most widely used. There are numerous advantages, however, it is important to be aware of the disadvantages as well.
- Pros: Tooth-colored fillings are crafted to very closely match the color of the natural teeth. The filling is chemically bonded in such a way that almost all of the natural tooth’s strength is restored, and tooth sensitivity is minimal, if any. Since the composite resin is tooth-colored, it can be used to repair any tooth in any part of the mouth, from a chipped front tooth to a broken molar. Once a filling is in place, decay is sealed out, and proper oral hygiene prevents new decay from forming.
- Cons: The fillings, after long exposures to dark-colored liquids and foods with rich dyes, are prone to staining. While more aesthetically pleasing, they are not as strong and are more expensive than metal fillings. Frequent exposure to liquids high in alcohol may also degrade the fillings.
Everybody deserves a smile they can be proud of. If you are looking into repairing broken, cracked or chipped teeth, James F. Walton III, DDS can help. Based in Tallahassee, FL, he is dedicated to providing top-notch care to every patient. Call to schedule an appointment today!