It may be hard to believe, but an estimated 92% of Americans 20-64 have some form of tooth decay that needs cosmetic help. If you have a cavity, you’re far from being alone. Getting a filling done is not fun, but it is necessary to keep your teeth healthy.
In the past, cavities were filled with a metal called amalgam. Amalgam is a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. But white fillings are plastic and are now a popular choice among many people. Here are some of the advantages of choosing white fillings over metal fillings.
What Is White Filling?
White teeth fillings, also called tooth-colored fillings, are made of composite resins that are matched to the color of your teeth. Unlike metal fillings, which are conspicuous when you laugh or speak, white fillings blend in with your natural teeth and are almost invisible. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, white fillings have a number of other advantages which we discuss below.
White fillings can repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps between teeth, and replace metal fillings. If you are considering white fillings for your teeth, be sure to consult with a qualified dentist to discuss your options.
Why Fill Your Teeth?
Tooth decay, which causes cavities, is the result of bacteria in the mouth feeding on sugar and producing acids that damage tooth enamel. Over time, this can cause a small hole, or cavity, to form in the tooth.
If left untreated, cavities can become larger and deeper, eventually leading to tooth loss. Filling cavities help prevent further decay.
Advantages of White Fillings
When it comes to dental fillings, patients have a choice between metal and white fillings. Here are some reasons why you may want to choose white fillings over metal ones.
Aesthetics
The biggest advantage of white fillings is that they are much less noticeable than metal fillings. If you have a metal filling, it is very obvious when you laugh or speak. White fillings blend in with your natural tooth color and are virtually invisible.
Function
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, white fillings also have several functional advantages. They bond directly to the tooth structure, which helps to strengthen the tooth and prevent further breakage.
They are also less likely than metal fillings to expand and contract with temperature changes, which can cause cracks in the teeth. This is because the plastic that makes them is not affected by temperature changes in the same way that metal is.
Ease Of Use
Another advantage of white fillings is that they are much easier to use than metal fillings. Metal fillings require the use of a drill to remove tooth decay. White fillings can be placed directly into the cavity, which eliminates the need for a drill. This means that the procedure is much less invasive and can be done in a shorter amount of time.
Cost
While the cost of white fillings is typically higher than metal fillings, the overall cost may be lower in the long run. This is because white fillings last longer than metal fillings and are less likely to need replacement.
Versatile
White fillings can repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps between teeth, and replace metal fillings. Dental care is important, and white fillings are a great option for those who want to maintain the health of their teeth.
Nontoxic
Another advantage of white fillings is that the material that makes them is non-toxic. Metal teeth fillings contain mercury, which can be toxic if it is released into the body. White fillings do not contain mercury, making them a safer choice for your health.
Stable
White fillings are also more stable than metal fillings. This means that they are less likely to fall out or become loose over time.
Hardens Quickly
White teeth fillings harden quickly. This means that you will not have to wait as long to eat or drink after the procedure.
Sensitivity Reduction
White fillings help to reduce sensitivity. This is because they seal the tooth and prevent bacteria and food particles from getting into the cavity.
Biocompatible
White fillings are biocompatible, which means that they are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Metal fillings contain nickel, which is a common allergen. White fillings do not contain nickel, making them a safer choice for people with allergies.
What To Expect During A Filling Procedure
If you are considering white fillings for your teeth, be sure to consult with a qualified dentist to discuss your options. The dentist will examine your teeth and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. He or she will also discuss the risks and benefits of white fillings with you.
Once you have decided to proceed with the procedure, the dentist will clean the cavity and prepare it for the filling. The filling will be placed into the cavity and allowed to harden. Once it has hardened, the dentist will trim any excess material and polish the filling. You should expect the procedure to take about an hour to complete.
What To Do After Filling Your Teeth
If you have white fillings, you can expect to experience some sensitivity for the first few days after the procedure. This is normal and will subside as your teeth adjust to the fillings. You should avoid eating hot or cold foods during this time.
You should also avoid chewing hard foods, such as candy or ice, for the first few days. Once your teeth have adjusted to the fillings, you can resume your normal diet.
Find a Dentist in Reno
White fillings are a great option for teeth that have been damaged or need restoration. The composition of resin makes it tooth-colored, perfect to blend in with the natural color of your teeth. This makes them less noticeable than metal fillings and can improve your smile.
If you’re interested in getting white fillings, look for a dentist in Reno that provides cosmetic dentistry like teeth fillings and other cosmetic dental care. Keep reading our health and fitness articles for more ways to protect that pearly-white smile.
