Tooth-Colored Fillings

Do you have tooth decay or a silver amalgam filling you’d like to replace? At Brookside Dental, we offer tooth-colored fillings to repair cavities and restore chipped teeth. In years past, people opted for silver fillings to restore their teeth. However, more and more dentists and patients prefer to use tooth-colored fillings to enhance aesthetics and preserve natural tooth structure. 

What Is a Tooth-Colored Filling?

A tooth-colored filling is made from composite, which is a mixture of resins, colorants, and glass particles that resemble the natural appearance of tooth enamel. Our Nampa dentists also use composite filling material to fill in small gaps between teeth and restore chipped teeth to create a more symmetrical and attractive smile. 

For some, the appearance of silver amalgam fillings is unattractive as they are more noticeable when you laugh or smile. These metal fillings can also make your teeth look discolored or aged. Tooth-colored composite fillings are the perfect solution for those who want an invisible filling. 

How Is a Tooth-Colored Filling Placed?

Before placing the filling, we numb the area of your mouth and remove any signs of decay in preparation for the bonding process. We then etch your natural tooth to create a rough surface, so the bonding properly adheres. Your Nampa dentist then applies the composite filling material in layers and cures it using a special ultraviolet light.

Once the bonding hardens, we shape the filling to ensure a perfect and comfortable bite and appearance. Finally, we polish the filling, so it perfectly blends in with your smile.  

Why Might I Choose Composite Fillings?

Unlike silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings are customized to match the exact shade of your natural teeth so you can have a seamless tooth repair. Composite bonds directly to the tooth, so tooth-colored fillings require less removal of the healthy tooth structure. Composite fillings are also less likely to crack and chip than amalgam fillings. 

Composite fillings look and feel more like a natural tooth than silver amalgam. They are also more resistant to fractures due to temperature changes in the mouth or uneven stress when biting. With tooth-colored fillings in Nampa, no one will ever know you’ve had dental work done!

How Long Do Tooth-Colored Fillings Last?

Tooth-colored fillings are highly durable and comfortable. Generally, they can last 10 to 12 years if well cared for.

To prolong the lifespan of your composite fillings, we recommend that you: 

  • Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. 
  • Floss between your teeth to remove plaque and food debris. 
  • Limit sticky, sugary snacks and beverages. 
  • Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. 
  • Rinse with a therapeutic, alcohol-free mouth rinse to eliminate oral bacteria. 
  • Avoid smoking and using tobacco products. 
  • Limit foods and drinks that stain teeth (e.g., coffee, tea, juice, and tomato sauce). 

Tooth-Colored Fillings at Our Nampa Dentist Office in 83686

Please get in touch with our Nampa dental office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Robbie Hamblin or Dr. Jared Hamblin. 

We look forward to restoring your smile!