Tooth Colored Fillings
What is a Tooth Colored Filling?
Tooth colored fillings are types of dental fillings that are used to restore teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay or by other structural damage. They are made of a composite resin meant to mimic the color of natural teeth. They are a great alternative to distracting silver fillings, not just restoring your child’s teeth, but their confidence too.
Why are Tooth Colored Fillings Needed?
If, during a dental exam, cavities or broken teeth are identified, a filling may be necessary to restore the tooth and tooth structure. Digital x-rays and a tooth exam can help to identify areas of decay and damage. Tooth colored fillings, sometimes called composite fillings, can help to restore the damaged tooth, while keeping the natural look of your child’s existing teeth and smile.
How are Tooth Colored Fillings Placed?
We understand that children may be nervous when receiving a dental filling, so we ensure that they are comfortable during the procedure. Sometimes, this can be achieved using pediatric conscious oral sedation or nitrous oxide. Local anesthetic numbs the targeted tooth, and the tooth decay is then removed. An acid etch and resin bonding material is then placed before the composite filling is placed into the tooth. After the filling is in place, a blue light is used to harden the filling materials.
Are Tooth Colored Fillings Painful?
After the targeted tooth is numbed, the child will not feel any pain while the filling material is placed. However, the child may feel some pressure during the treatment. Overall, the process of placing a composite filling is fairly quick and mostly painless. After the filling is placed, the newly filled tooth may be sensitive, however this will resolve over time. The discomfort of the tooth filling procedure, is very little compared the the sharp edge of a broken tooth or pain from tooth decay.
Benefits of Tooth Colored Fillings
Tooth colored fillings match the color of your child’s natural existing teeth, making them a very popular option for dental restorations. While they are mainly used to restore the front teeth, they are also used to restore molars as long as the fillings are relatively small in size. For larger fillings, other filling materials like silver fillings or gold fillings may be recommended for maximum sound tooth structure.
If your child is experiencing worn teeth, broken teeth, or decayed teeth they may be in need of a filling. If you would like to learn more about tooth colored fillings, contact our Quincy, MA office today to schedule an appointment!
Dr. Michelle Anderson is a pediatric dentist board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
