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The Discreet Way to Treat Cavities
In the 1800s, dentists discovered that silver and other metals could be used to fill cavities, so they used those materials to restore a decayed tooth’s structure and function. Trace amounts of mercury were even added to make the substance more pliable.
However, eventually people began to grow concerned about the amount of mercury in these fillings. After all, mercury can cause serious harm when it enters the body. While doctors and scientists have not confirmed that the amount of mercury in metal fillings is truly a threat, many of them agreed that another filling material was long past due. Today, your dentist in Evergreen uses composite resin to restore your decayed teeth back to full health.
Amalgam (Metal) vs. Tooth-Colored Fillings
While some dentists still place amalgam fillings, their clearest disadvantage is their appearance. Once they have been placed, metal fillings stand out in your smile. The metal can seep into the tooth and leave behind a dark gray stain that makes people afraid to smile confidently. Additionally, many patients have a sensitivity or allergy to metal. They may experience discomfort or even pain when eating certain hot or cold foods. Those people would obviously benefit more from tooth-colored fillings.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
On the other hand, tooth-colored fillings (also known as composite or white fillings) are designed with the purpose of maintaining the beauty of your smile. Besides being more aesthetically pleasing, tooth-colored fillings are also a more conservative treatment. The composite resin that the fillings are made of directly bonds to your tooth, sealing out bacteria and preventing further decay in the future. In addition, we only have to remove a little, if any, enamel in order to place a tooth-colored filling. To make room for metal fillings, more of your enamel had to be carved out to place the filling, but that’s not the case with composite resin. With tooth-colored fillings, you can retain more of your natural tooth structure.
The Process of Receiving Tooth-Colored Fillings
Because the composite resin bonds directly to your tooth, no extra enamel has to be drilled away. Instead, our dentists will only remove the decayed portion. Also, because your tooth has more of its original structure, the filling should last significantly longer than its metal counterpart.
To begin the process of placing a tooth-colored filling, we’ll numb the treatment area. You may feel a slight pressure during the process, but you shouldn’t experience pain. We’ll then remove the damaged section of the tooth. Next, we’ll apply the composite resin layer by layer until the tooth is built up to the optimal size and shape. Using a curing light, we’ll harden the material into place so that it forms a tight bond with your enamel. Lastly, we’ll polish the tooth and check your bite to make sure it fits within your tooth.
With regular brushing, flossing, and checkups and cleanings with us, you can expect your tooth-colored filling to last around a decade before it needs to be replaced. It’s important to note, though, that these fillings are just as susceptible to staining as your natural teeth. For this reason, it’s best to limit your exposure to discoloring foods and beverages like coffee and darkly pigmented sauces. If you’re going to enjoy these items, brush your teeth or at least rinse with water immediately afterward.
Do you want a metal-free solution to cavities? Then contact us today to schedule your appointment to revitalize your smile with a tooth-colored filling!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are tooth-colored fillings made of?
Tooth-colored fillings, also called composite or white fillings, are made of a biocompatible composite resin that combines plastic and fine glass particles. This material is completely metal-free and contains no mercury, making it a safer, more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings. We use tooth-colored fillings for patients of all ages throughout Evergreen, Golden, Idaho Springs, Conifer, and Bailey.
Are tooth-colored fillings better than metal fillings?
In most cases, yes. Tooth-colored fillings bond directly to your tooth, requiring less removal of healthy enamel and providing a stronger seal against future decay. They blend seamlessly with your natural smile, eliminate concerns about mercury exposure, and don't expand or contract with temperature changes the way metal fillings do, reducing the risk of cracks. They're also a great option for patients with metal sensitivities or allergies.
Can I replace my old silver fillings with tooth-colored ones?
Absolutely. Many of our patients in Evergreen, Golden, and Conifer choose to have their old amalgam fillings replaced with natural-looking composite fillings for both aesthetic and health reasons. Our team safely removes the old material and replaces it with biocompatible composite resin that bonds directly to your tooth, restoring both function and appearance.
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
With proper care, tooth-colored fillings typically last around 10 years or longer. Their lifespan depends on the size and location of the filling, your oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle factors like teeth grinding. Brushing twice daily, flossing, avoiding hard foods, and keeping routine checkups at our Evergreen, CO office will help your fillings last as long as possible.
How do I know if I need a filling?
Common signs of a cavity include tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, visible holes or dark spots on the tooth, pain when biting down, and lingering toothaches. However, many cavities cause no symptoms in their early stages, which is why we use the KaVo DIAGnodent cavity detection pen at Evergreen Dental Group. This advanced laser technology identifies decay long before it's visible to the naked eye, allowing for more conservative treatment.
Does getting a tooth-colored filling hurt?
No. We use local anesthetic to numb the treatment area completely, so you shouldn't feel any pain during the procedure. You may notice some pressure as we remove the decay and place the filling, but most patients are surprised by how quick and comfortable the experience is. Mild sensitivity for a day or two afterward is normal and typically resolves on its own.
Will my tooth-colored filling stain over time?
Composite resin can stain over time, just like natural tooth enamel, especially when exposed to coffee, tea, red wine, dark sauces, and tobacco. To keep your filling looking its best, limit your intake of staining foods and beverages, brush twice daily, and rinse with water after consuming pigmented items. Routine cleanings at Evergreen Dental Group also help remove surface stains and keep your smile bright.
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