Tooth-Colored Restorations
Tooth-Colored Restorations
Composite resins, or tooth-colored fillings, provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth. They are a good choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural.
It generally takes more time to place a composite filling than it does for a metal filling. That’s because composite fillings require the tooth be kept clean and dry while the cavity is being filled. Tooth-colored fillings are now used more often than amalgam or metal fillings. In a society focused on white and bright smiles, people tend to want fillings that blend with the natural color of their teeth.
Ultimately, the best dental filling is no dental filling. And no dental filling lasts forever. Prevention is the best medicine. You can dramatically decrease your risk of cavities and other dental diseases simply by:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily
- Eating a balanced diet
- Visiting the dentist regularly