In the past, metal amalgam fillings were the only option in the dental industry. Although they are considered durable, they have a few drawbacks such as, the metal fillings may stain the teeth over time leading dark-colored spots that compromise the appearance of the smile. Plus, as metal contracts and expands with changes in the temperature, metal filling implies the risk of weakening or fracturing the teeth.
Nowadays, with the advancements in the dental industry, a better option has become available to restore damaged teeth – white fillings. White fillings are a dental composite material designed to match the natural colour of the teeth, restoring both the beautiful and function of a teeth. Here are some reasons why you should consider white fillings to restore your smile.
Colour
With white filling, the compost will be tinted to precisely match the shade of your surrounding teeth, hence leading a seamless-looking smile.
Strong bond
White fillings are bonded directly to your tooth. For this, a curing light is used to minimise the chances of them coming loose of falling out over time. The bond is also known to help prevent decay from occurring between the filling and the tooth.
No reaction to temperature changes
The composite material used in white filling does not expand or contract with cold or hot, which helps protect the integrity of your teeth.
No mercury
Metal filling presents mercury in its composition, which may present a health risk for some people. White fillings, on the other hand, are completely mercury-free.
Preservation of tooth structure
With white feelings, less of your natural tooth structure is required to be removed in order to place the filling. Furthermore, white fillings make your teeth less sensitive to extreme cold and extreme hot by insulating your teeth, instead of making them more vulnerable to sensitivity as metal fillings do.
If you have metal fillings that are staining your teeth or making them become loose, or you are simply unhappy with your smile overall appearance, you should consider replacing them with a quality white filling. Also keep in mind that if you have an untreated cavity, it is imperative that you visit a dental office to address this issue with a dental filling. Untreated tooth decay can become an infection if bacteria reach the tooth's pulp, putting the entire tooth in danger.
Receiving a dental filling is a quite simple process. Your dentist will clean your tooth to remove any decayed material. Next, he/she will tint the composite resin to match your tooth to ensure your restoration blends in naturally. Finally, he/she will place the filling, allow it to harden so that it comes durable and will then polish your tooth, completing the restoration process.
