The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
There are many different ways that a dentist can enhance the health and the beauty of your smile. One of the best things about modern dentistry is that health and beauty aren't exclusive. Many procedures have been developed that help improve overall dental aesthetic without sacrificing the need to enhance a person's dental health.
When you meet with a skilled cosmetic dentist, you can learn more about all these matters in greater detail. We'd like to turn our attention right now to some basics regarding tooth-colored dental fillings and why they are so advantageous.
About Dental Fillings
It may be helpful to define some of the basics in regard to dental fillings in general. Dental fillings are small dental restorations that are used to rebuild tooth structure that has been seriously damaged or decayed. The fillings are such that they restore the structure and integrity of a tooth so that decay and damage do not progress.
In the past, metal dental fillings were the norm, but there were numerous problems with those metal restorations.
The Cosmetic Issues with Metal Dental Fillings
Metal fillings were very noticeable given their color. The dark gray of the meta amalgam material was such a stark contrast to the natural color of a person's tooth structure.
Why Tooth-Colored Fillings are Superior Aesthetically
If it wasn't already apparent, tooth-colored fillings blend in seamless with natural tooth structure. When they are in place, the tooth-colored fillings are very hard to detect.
The Health Problems Associated with Metal Dental Fillings
More important than the cosmetic problems associated with these kinds of fillings are the health issues these dental fillings posed. Metal amalgam materials often contained mercury, which is highly toxic.
In addition, the metal fillings could change slightly in size simply as part of the nature of their composition. In major heat, the metal fillings slightly expand; in major cold, the metal fillings slightly contract. Over time, this can cause damage to a person's tooth structure.
Why Tooth-Colored Fillings are Superior for Dental Wellness
Tooth-colored fillings are made from safe ceramics and composites that contain no toxic materials. This means that in terms of composition, the tooth-colored dental fillings are harmless.
In fact due to their ceramic composition, the tooth-colored fillings are also not subject to fluctuations in size and shape like the metal dental fillings, meaning consistent form without fluctuation and no chance of tooth damage over time.
Patients Can Maintain More Healthy Tooth Structure with Tooth-Colored Fillings
One of the biggest benefits of tooth-colored fillings comes down to maintaining natural tooth structure. With tooth-colored fillings, patients are able to maintain more of their tooth structure than when they get metal dental fillings. The more natural tooth structure a patient can maintain, the better in the long run.
More Substantial Restorations for Major Tooth Decay / Damage
If you have major tooth decay or damage that cannot be address with a dental filling, we should note that the use of inlays, onlays, and dental crowns may prove very helpful for meeting your needs. These can all be discussed in greater detail during your visit to the practice.
Learn More About General Dental Care Treatment
For more information about tooth-colored fillings and how they can be of great benefit to you, be sure to contact our Kansas City cosmetic dentistry practice today. The entire team here is eager to meet you in person and help you achieve an excellent smile as well as the best possible dental health.
