Dental Services
Fillings: Amalgams and Composites
Fillings are the most common dental restoration and in our office we utilize composite material (type of durable plastic in shades to match teeth) to provide fillings which are not only strong, but also more natural in appearance than the older "silver" fillings. While they are more cosmetically pleasing, these fillings also bond to the tooth for a more seamless transition from tooth to filling material and in essence help to hold the tooth together, whereas the metal alloy fillings (amalgams) required the tooth structure itself to hold them into place.
The pics above show (left) amalgam / silver fillings and (right) composite / tooth colored fillings - on the same patient.
While fillings are traditionally used to fill the hole remaining after decay has been removed from a tooth, the composite fillings are also used as a cosmetic restoration in some cases. Here are some of the other uses for composite fillings (or the material):
The pics above show (left) amalgam / silver fillings and (right) composite / tooth colored fillings - on the same patient.
While fillings are traditionally used to fill the hole remaining after decay has been removed from a tooth, the composite fillings are also used as a cosmetic restoration in some cases. Here are some of the other uses for composite fillings (or the material):
- Small chips can sometimes be repaired
- Grooves in teeth which frequently stain can be filled in
- Old silver fillings can be optionally replaced to provide a better appearance
- A thin layer of composite can be used to form a veneer over one or more front teeth to slightly change that appearance or shade of a tooth
If you are interested in any of these optional uses, be sure to discuss it at your next routine visit or...
CONTACT US NOW to schedule a Smile Consult!
913-631-2626
or request an appointment via email: office@seamanfamilydentistry.info