After a dental professional has cleaned out the decay inside a cavity, the remaining hole usually needs either a tooth colored filling or one made of metal to protect the tooth from further damage. There are advantages to both of these types of materials, and it is important to know the benefits of each before choosing one. Here are some of the things to expect when the dentist uses a tooth colored filling in the cavity.
There are many positive reasons to get tooth colored fillings. Consequently, this type of material has increased in popularity over the years.
The biggest reason many people choose this type of filling is aesthetics. Regardless of where a metal filling is located in the mouth, its distinct color difference can make it visible when the mouth opens to talk, yawn or laugh. Especially in cases where it is needed in a front tooth, a metal filling would be extremely noticeable and unsightly. A filling that is tooth colored, on the other hand, is designed to blend into the natural appearance of the existing tooth enamel and become almost invisible. Getting this type of filling can prevent embarrassment or self-consciousness.
Composite resin fillings are able to structurally bond to the tooth. This helps support a tooth weakened by the removal of decayed material. It also spares more of the natural tooth because less drilling is usually required for the dentist to place a composite filling than a metal one. In addition, the bonding properties of a composite resin filling allow it to be used to fix smaller tooth issues like chips or worn-down places with excessive wear.
No kind of tooth filling is perfect. Patients should be aware of any issues with each type so there are no surprises after the filling is in place.
The material used for a tooth colored filling is usually a composite resin that can require more time to apply than a metal filling. Since no more than 20 additional minutes per filling is needed, there is usually only a small difference in the length of the appointment. However, along with this potential increase in chair time, more visits might become necessary if the composite is used for an onlay or inlay.
The durability of a tooth colored filling depends on the material used. Composite fillings last at least five years. If they are made from ceramic, they can last longer than 15 years, but this material is more expensive to use. Since metal fillings last at least 10 years, people tend to think composite fillings will also last that long, but that is typically not the case.
Tooth colored fillings have become popular mainly due to the fact that they are practically invisible once placed. Dental professionals also like this type of filling because of its bonding properties. However, patients should prepare for a few extra minutes in the dental chair and realize the tooth colored filling may need replacement after five years.
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