Tooth-Colored Fillings – Hamden, CT

The Discreet Way to Treat Cavities

Woman with beautiful smile and tooth-colored fillings in Hamden

For many years, dentists always turned to silver amalgam to fill cavities. The amalgam, a mix of mercury and other metals, proved to be quite effective at stopping dental decay. However, it has several downsides, including its dark color that clashes with the dentition around it. Today, more and more dental practices have abandoned amalgam fillings in favor of tooth-colored fillings. These aesthetically pleasing restorations are beautiful and offer a number of oral health benefits. If you are interested in learning more about this remarkable treatment, continue reading this page.

Why Choose New Haven Dental Group for Tooth-Colored Fillings?

Natural-looking results
Friendly, experienced dental team
A superior alternative to metal fillings

What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?

Illustration of tooth-colored filling on tooth’s chewing surface

Tooth-colored fillings are also known as white fillings or composite resin fillings. The resin that they are composed of is a mixture of glass particles, plastic, and other biocompatible ingredients. Together, they make up a flexible material that a dentist can easily shade-match to blend in the natural color of a patient’s teeth. The resin is the same material that we use to reshape teeth via cosmetic dental bonding.

How Do Tooth-Colored Fillings Work?

Man admiring his smile after receiving tooth-colored filling

The tooth-colored filling process is comfortable and quick. Often, we begin by numbing the tooth. However, that step is not always necessary if a cavity has not penetrated too deep into the tooth’s structure. Then, we prepare the tooth by removing its decayed tissue. Next, we insert the resin into the cavity. A special light hardens the filling in just a few seconds. Finally, we adjust the filling so that it will not interfere with the patient’s bite.

Do I Need a Tooth-Colored Filling?

Dentist reviewing X-ray to determine if patient needs filling

Here are some indications that you could benefit from a tooth-colored filling:

One of your teeth is unusually sensitive
A tooth has a visible hole in it
You wish to replace your old metal fillings with something that is more aesthetically pleasing
One of your old fillings has fallen out
Your floss frequently snags on a certain tooth, or food always seems to get stuck in the same spot in a tooth
A tooth feels rough when you run your tongue over it

If you suspect that you need a filling, visit your dentist as soon as possible. Postponing your appointment will give the problem a chance to worse. In fact, if you delay too long, a filling may no longer be an adequate way to treat your dental decay. You might end up needing a more extensive procedure.

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Woman pointing at her beautiful smile, which contains tooth-colored fillings

Many patients love tooth-colored fillings because of their aesthetic appeal. However, their beauty is just the beginning of the advantages they offer. Additional benefits include:

They are completely free of mercury and other metals
Minimal tooth preparation is necessary because the resin bonds directly with the surrounding dentition
They do not expand and contract in response to temperature changes
They do not conduct temperatures well, which can help to keep dental sensitivity to a minimal
Their cost is relatively low, and dental insurance usually covers about 80% of their price

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