5 Important Facts about Cosmetic Fillings

No longer do you have to worry about unsightly metal fillings! Cosmetic, tooth-colored fillings are now readily available to keep your smile looking natural thanks to materials that mimic the tooth’s natural color and translucency, making them practically undetectable.

Here are 5 important facts about Cosmetic Fillings that make them a great option for replacing unsightly metal fillings:

1. Tooth-Colored Fillings Offer Superior Aesthetic Properties

Tooth colored fillings are composed of a composite resin which can easily be matched to your natural tooth color and as a result the filling is almost seamless, making it virtually undetectable on all teeth. Thanks to the fact that most people won’t be able to tell you have cosmetic fillings; these fillings are often preferred over the traditional, unsightly, metal fillings.

2. Cosmetic Fillings Chemically Bond To The Tooth

For silver amalgam fillings, the tooth has to be cut and shaped to ensure the filling remains intact within the cavity. Improper tooth preparation can lead to the filling being dislodged. In comparison, with cosmetic fillings little tooth preparation is required because it bonds to the tooth chemically. This means the natural tooth structure is preserved, resulting in a stronger, healthier tooth.

3. The Physical Properties Of The Resin Are Close To Those Of Natural Teeth

One of the problems with metal fillings is that it is rigid and not very pliable. This can cause problems such as breakage of the tooth or filling itself. The composite resin used in cosmetic fillings on the other hand, flexes like a natural tooth does. As a result, there are fewer chances for the disintegration or breaking of the filling. Overall, when the physical properties of the filling match those of the tooth, the expected longevity, and durability of the filling increases.

4. Cosmetic Fillings Are Versatile In Utility

As with traditional metal fillings, cosmetic fillings are used to fill cavities in both front and back teeth. However, because of their natural, tooth colored appearance, they can also be used to treat chipped teeth or correct gaps in teeth. They can also be used to conceal pits or discolorations on the teeth.

5. No Negative Effects On The Body

Today’s composite resins used in cosmetic fillings are completely safe and produce no harmful effects on the surrounding tissues. While there is considerable debate as to the safety of traditional amalgam, metal fillings, most cosmetic fillings are biocompatible and as a result, there is no fear of toxicity.

Are you looking to replace unsightly metal fillings with natural-looking cosmetic fillings? Call Dr. VanderMolen and Advanced Dental Care at (217) 546-3333 for an appointment today! Click here for more information on all the services available at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield.