Tooth Filling
A tooth-colored filling is a great option to restore a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or defective portion of the tooth is excavated and then repaired with a composite filling.
There are many types of filling materials in the market, each with its pros and cons. Your dentist in Brooklyn, NY can discuss the best tooth-filling options for your teeth. Tooth-colored fillings, along with amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can easily blend in with the color of your own teeth and are more aesthetically suited for use in anterior teeth.
As with most dental restoration options, tooth-colored fillings are not permanent and may have to be repaired or replaced. They are durable and can last many years, giving you a beautiful and long-lasting smile.
How are composite fillings performed?
Tooth-colored fillings are usually placed in one sitting. While the tooth is numb, your dentist cleans out the cavity as needed. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the filling material is placed. If the tooth decay is near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will also be applied for pulp protection. The white tooth filling will then be accurately placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original function and form.
It is normal to have sensitivity to cold and hot when composite fillings are first placed, however, this will subside right after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.
You will be provided post-operative instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good eating habits, proper oral hygiene, and bi-annual dental cleaning visits will aid in extending the longevity of your new fillings.