Tooth-Colored Fillings – Indianapolis, IN
A Simplified & Effective Way to Treat Cavities
Nearly every person may experience a cavity at some point in their lifetime. Due to this common dental issue, advancements in dentistry have been able to find a solution that goes beyond treating this problem with shiny and visible metal fillings. Instead, at Indy Dental Group, we can provide patients with tooth-colored fillings to address decay and cavities in a more efficient method. Not only does the composite bonding material fuse with your pearly whites easily, but it can also blend effortlessly with the rest of your pearly whites! Read on to learn more about this discreet cavity treatment or give our team a call to set up your initial consultation.
Why Choose Indy Dental Group for Tooth-Colored Fillings?
- Durable & Lifelike Dental Materials
- Completely Custom Treatment Plans
- Accepts Dental Insurance & CareCredit Financing
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
While fillings used to be formed with metal amalgam, tooth-colored fillings are constructed out of composite resin, which consists of incredibly fine particles of acrylic and glass. This material is biocompatible and can form a durable bond with a decayed tooth, creating a powerful seal to keep harmful bacteria from accumulating. Additionally, this is the same material used for direct bonding, meaning this treatment can help address cavities as well as improve the overall appearance of your pearly whites!
The Process of Getting a Tooth-Colored Filling
To get tooth-colored fillings, you’ll have to undergo several steps, including:
- Numbing & preparation: You’ll receive a local anesthetic to remain pain-free throughout the procedure. Our team will then extract any debris and decayed particles from the tooth before sanitizing it completely.
- Applying the composite resin: After cleaning the cavity, we’ll apply composite resin to fill the area and renew both the structure and appearance of the tooth.
- Hardening the resin: We’ll then use a curing light to harden the composite resin so that it bonds effectively with your tooth.
- Final adjustments: Our team will confirm the filling is proper and that your bite is comfortable, making any necessary changes so that the results are flawless.
- Restored smile: Once the filling is set, you’ll be free to leave and enjoy your renewed and healthy smile.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
While metal amalgam is a viable solution for treating decay and cavities, it won’t come with the same benefits that you’ll find with tooth-colored fillings. Some of the advantages of using composite resin include:
- Enhanced cosmetic appearance
- Biocompatible materials
- Preserves more of the tooth structure
- Cost-effective dental procedure
- Long-lasting results (can go for 10 years or more with proper care)
Tooth-Colored Fillings FAQs
Does getting a tooth-colored filling hurt?
No, you should not expect your tooth-colored filling in Indianapolis to hurt. During the procedure, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to thoroughly numb the tooth and surrounding tissues. This will eliminate any potential pain and instead dull your senses, keeping you comfortable throughout treatment.
After the anesthesia wears off, you may notice minor discomfort and sensitivity, but this will dissipate within a few days.
How long will a tooth-colored filling last?
The lifespan of your tooth-colored filling depends on how well you take care of it. On average, they can last about 10 years; however, you will need to make sure that you:
- Practice good oral hygiene at home that includes brushing twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and rinsing regularly as instructed.
- Keep your regular dental checkup and cleaning appointments with our team.
- Avoid dental damage by limiting your consumption of hard, crunchy, and chewy foods.
- Avoid practicing bad habits, such as eating ice, chewing on pens and pencils, etc.
What does composite resin consist of?
The composite resin that is used for tooth-colored fillings consists of a mixture of fine glass and plastic materials that are shaded to blend in with natural enamel. They’re also referred to as composite fillings because they are more malleable and can sit flush when placed. What you will see is a translucent filling that looks similar to your regular enamel. It will appear as if no work was required, so others will be unable to tell.
Will my tooth-colored filling look natural?
Yes, you can expect your tooth-colored filling to look completely natural once it is placed. The reason is that the composite resin used will be color-matched to blend in with your enamel. Once your dentist sculpts the resin, it will create a seamless appearance, so no one will ever be able to tell you received dental work for a cavity-stricken tooth.
This is one of the primary benefits of tooth-colored fillings. Unlike traditional amalgam fillings, which draw attention to your dental treatment, composite fillings remain discreet for a more confident smile.