FILLINGS

A dental restoration or filling is a restorative material used artificially to restore the function, integrity and morphology of missing tooth structure. The structural loss typically results from caries or external trauma. Dental restorations may be fabricated out of a variety of materials.

Dental Composites

Dental composites (also known as tooth colored fillings) allow us to restore your tooth in a manner that allows both strength and beauty. These materials are bonded to the tooth, and, along with our cavity detecting dye and the high power microscope, allow us to have a high degree of predictability. We take more time doing these procedures than you may be used to, but feel it is time well spent when you experience less sensitivity and more longevity from your filling.

Many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and tooth-colored restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable), but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are aesthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.

Disadvantages Of Silver Fillings

Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and creates an environment where cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split. They can corrode, leak, and cause stains on your teeth and gums. This is why we choose not to perform this type of filling.

Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with tooth-colored restorations.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin onlays are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.

Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contains fluoride, restorations can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums!

The result is a beautiful smile!

Exam and Preparation

First, Dr. Peck examines the tooth and determines the appropriate treatment. It could be a simple filling, or a full crown, depending on how much healthy tooth structure is remaining and the clinical judgment of Dr. Peck. Next, he administers an anesthetic and prepares your tooth for the restoration, removing decayed and weakened tooth tissue. This preparation is just like he would do for many other restorative techniques.

Replacing Silver Fillings With A Tooth-Colored Restoration

You can have your silver fillings replaced with tooth-colored restorations (onlays). This process requires two appointments.

Your First Appointment

  • The old filling is removed and any additional decay.

  • An impression is made of your teeth. A model of your teeth is made and sent to the lab.

  • A temporary onlay is placed on the tooth.

At the lab, resin is carefully placed into the model of your teeth. It is then designed to look like your natural tooth.

Your Second Appointment

  • The temporary onlay is removed.

  • A conditioning gel is placed on your tooth to prepare it for the new onlay.

  • Bonding cement is placed on the tooth and a high intensity light bonds the resin to the tooth.

  • The tooth is then polished.

Your teeth are restored to a natural look and feel, they are stronger, and the tooth is protected!