Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are a contemporary alternative to traditional metal fillings. This advanced dental treatment offers both functional and aesthetic benefits, providing patients with a durable and natural-looking solution for restoring teeth affected by decay or damage.

Dental Fillings — Edina, MN — Interlachen Dental Associate

Procedure

The procedure for placing tooth-colored fillings typically involves several steps:

Preparation: The dentist begins by numbing the area around the affected tooth to ensure patient comfort. The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is then carefully removed, leaving behind healthy tooth structure.
Bonding: The tooth-colored filling material is applied in layers to the prepared tooth surface. Each layer is meticulously bonded and hardened using a special curing light. This bonding process creates a strong and durable seal between the filling and the tooth, helping to prevent further decay and providing structural support.
Shaping and Polishing: Once the filling material has been applied and cured, the dentist skillfully shapes and contours it to match the natural contours of the tooth. This step ensures a comfortable bite and a seamless appearance. Finally, the filling is polished to a smooth finish, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings:

Aesthetic Appeal: Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with natural teeth, providing a discreet and aesthetically pleasing solution for dental restorations.
Preservation of Tooth Structure: Composite resin bonds directly to the tooth, requiring minimal removal of healthy tooth structure during the preparation process.
Durability: Tooth-colored fillings are highly durable and resistant to wear, allowing patients to enjoy long-lasting results.
Reduced Sensitivity: Unlike metal fillings, which can conduct temperature changes, tooth-colored fillings offer improved insulation, reducing the risk of post-operative sensitivity.
Versatility: Tooth-colored fillings can be used to repair teeth affected by decay, chips, cracks, or gaps, offering a versatile solution for various dental concerns.