Cosmetic Fillings

Cosmetic fillings are tooth colored fillings. Unlike the old amalgam and metal fillings the newer cosmetic fillings aren’t only to repair a tooth or fill a cavity but they also work to keep your teeth looking beautiful and natural. Cosmetic fillings are made to look great and feel natural so you hardly know that they’re there and others will never need to know. They can be used to replace old fillings so that you can finally improve your smile and get rid of those unsightly dark fillings or for restoring full teeth or those in with larger areas of damage a crown may be used with cosmetic fillings for a cleaner look and stronger structure.

Cosmetic fillings and bonding work the same way in most cases. A composite filling that is made of composite quartz resin and is made to be sensitive to light is bonded to the tooth using a special light to cure it. Just like with any type of filling the dentist will want to ensure that the tooth that is being filled or bonded is healthy and free of decay. Depending on the condition of the tooth or teeth being worked on, this may require an extra visit or two. Otherwise cosmetic fillings can restore the look and health of the teeth in just one visit!

Going in for a cosmetic filling isn’t at all painful and rarely uncomfortable. Once the dentist has ensured that the tooth is healthy enough to add the composite or filling, it is then prepared using a thin layer of resin which the filling will bond to once the light is applied. The bonding only takes a matter of seconds and you’re left with a filling that is hardened and strong enough that you can go about your business—eating included—right away. There is no recovery time required with cosmetic fillings and aside from the possibility of some sensitivity to heat and cold over the next few days, the process is pain free.

By opting to go with cosmetic fillings you can still get the dental treatment that you need and preserve your tooth while at the same time keeping your smile looking completely natural. Cosmetic fillings can be matched to your other teeth as far as shape, texture and color go so that you can get a perfect match. This is especially great news for those who need to repair a front tooth that is visible to everyone when we speak or smile. By being able to restore the natural look of your tooth or teeth you can regain some of the self confidence that you may have been missing since damaging the tooth. Cosmetic fillings help us to get the smiles that we’ve always wanted—healthy and beautiful.

Speak to the dentist about cosmetic fillings and see if this option works for you. Through a consultation your dentist can examine your teeth and hear your concerns and let you know if you’re a good candidate for these white fillings. You can have a beautiful smile sooner than you think!