Is There an Alternative to Traditional Fillings?

In the past, it used to be that when you took care of a cavity you received what is known as a dental amalgam, or metal filling. While dental amalgam fillings are still acceptable, they are losing popularity due to their limited appearance options.

Traditionally, dental amalgam is made up of a mixture of metals and comes in either gold or silver. Increasingly over the years a more natural look has been sought out which is why our Mullins, SC, dentist exclusively offers tooth-colored fillings, or composite resin fillings, for our patients. Gone are the self-conscious days when you thought people might see your metallic fillings and know you’ve had a cavity.

Here’s more about composite fillings and why they’re often preferred over the traditional option.

What Is a Composite Resin Filling?

The most common alternative to dental amalgam are composite resins which are usually referred to as “tooth colored” or “white” fillings due to their low-key coloring. Consisting of an acrylic resin reinforced with a powdered glass filler, composite fillings provide proper durability and can be used on either front or back teeth.

Just like dental amalgam fillings, the composite resin alternative is perfectly safe and will remain strong for years to come.

Advantages of Composite Resin

Compared to their classic counterpart, composite resin fillings stand out as hands down the better choice if you want your smile to look as natural as possible. No shiny metal or apparent cavity fill here. Aside from the obvious benefit, you might be wondering what the other advantages of this filling alternative are.

Here are just a few to keep in mind:

• Unlike metal amalgam fillings, they do not contract or expand with temperature.
• Composite fillings are strong as well as very durable.
• Your risk of secondary cavities due to possible movement of fillings is greatly reduced.
• Minimal removal of healthy tooth structure required during placement.

Remember that the most ideal situation to be in is one in which you do not need fillings of any kind. Dr. Blevins recommends that you routinely brush, floss, and come into our Mullins, SC, dental office every 6 months for a teeth cleaning.

What to Expect

If it is determined by Dr. Blevins that you do indeed require a tooth-colored filling for a cavity, it’s important that you know generally what you can expect during the restorative dental procedure.

Before we get started, the tooth will need to first be numbed with a local anesthetic and once the area in question is properly numb, we will keep moving forward and use a dental drill to remove the decayed tooth structure. Next step, restoration.

Once the cavity is removed, the composite filling will be applied in layers and each layer will be light cured, or hardened, with a special dental-grade light device. With the material in place, Dr. Blevins will form the resin to firmly fit your tooth.

Voila! These simple steps will culminate in composite resin being perfectly blended to fit in with your natural enamel color. Goodbye cavity, hello healthy and confident smile.

Want the Best for Your Smile?

Let’s be honest, no one likes having cavities filled. However, if you find yourself in the position of needing the procedure, our dentist in Mullins, SC, has the natural looking alternative for you.

Dr. Todd Blevins will work with you to restore your smile in a smooth and painless way each time you come into our office. Please do not hesitate to see us if you think you may be experiencing a dental emergency. To request an appointment, call Blevins Dentistry today at (843) 561-4039.

This blog post has been updated. 

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