Natural-looking Tooth-Colored Fillings in Sun City West, AZ
How can a tooth-colored filling help? A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite material that matches your tooth color. There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Composite fillings are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth-colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, they are conservative and are bonded directly to your own natural tooth structure. Tooth-colored fillings are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.
As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. Yet they are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.
Over time, fillings in teeth start to deteriorate and require replacement. This individual had tooth colored fillings placed in the two front teeth several years ago. These types of fillings can become stained and discolor over time, creating an esthetic concern. They can be replaced with new fillings to match the existing tooth color, helping them to blend into the teeth once again!
Fillings may also require replacement if decay exists around them. These tooth colored fillings are discolored around the edges by decay of the tooth structure around them. Once decay starts around a filing, the bacteria spreads rapidly, getting underneath the filling and destroying tooth structure. These failing restorations must be replaced quickly to prevent further destruction of the tooth and to help prevent additional treatment.