The Advantages of Choosing Tooth-Colored Fillings for a Confident Smile

At Washington Elite Dentistry, we understand that dental treatments involve more than protecting your teeth from decay. These days, more and more patients are looking for solutions that preserve both the health and beauty of their smiles. That's why Dr. Caroline Berman and our team of dentists in Washington, D.C. are excited to offer tooth-colored fillings as an option for patients who want to address cavities in a way that looks natural and discreet.

What are tooth-colored fillings made of?

Tooth-colored fillings are constructed from composite resin, a blend of sturdy plastics and ceramics designed to hold up under pressure. This composition is starkly different from traditional amalgam fillings, which are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper. Thanks to the way they're made, composite resin fillings are able to bond in a way that amalgam fillings can't, providing more structure for your tooth. As a side benefit, composite fillings can be shaded to match the color of your natural teeth, which is why they're more commonly known as tooth-colored fillings.

How durable are tooth-colored fillings?

For many years, amalgam fillings have been the go-to choice because of their lasting qualities. However, with recent advancements in dental materials, composite resin fillings have significantly closed the gap in terms of durability. These fillings, engineered to withstand the daily demands of chewing, offer a sturdy solution that can last for many years when maintained properly. These advantages make composite resin an excellent choice for restorative work for teeth, combining durability with aesthetic appeal.

What other benefits can I gain from tooth-colored fillings?

Choosing tooth-colored fillings offers a host of advantages beyond just a natural look. Here are some of the additional benefits:

• Aesthetically pleasing: They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, enhancing your smile's appearance.
• Less tooth structure removal: These fillings require less drilling, meaning more of your natural tooth is preserved.
• Reduced sensitivity: Composite resin fillings are less likely to cause tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
• Don't contain mercury: For patients concerned about mercury in amalgam fillings, composite resins offer a safe mercury-free alternative.

Can metal fillings be replaced with composite resin fillings?

Absolutely. Whether you're concerned about the safety of metal fillings or you just want a solution that blends with your natural smile, Dr. Berman and our team can help. During your consultation, we can assess your fillings to determine if replacement with composite resin is a suitable option for you. This replacement can often be done in just one visit, improving your smile's appearance and functionality.

Enhance your smile with tooth-colored fillings

At Washington Elite Dentistry, we are committed to serving the dental health needs of our community through personalized, high-quality care. Choosing tooth-colored fillings is just one way to improve your dental health while keeping your smile bright and confident.

If you're considering tooth-colored fillings or have questions about replacing your metal fillings, we invite you to contact our team of dentists in Washington, D.C. Let's work together to achieve a healthier, more radiant smile that you're proud to show off.