4011 W McDowell Rd Phoenix, AZ 85009
Composite Fillings: Restore Your Smile at Clear Sky Dental Care
Back in the 1800s, dentists discovered the effectiveness of metal fillings, enhancing their flexibility with small amounts of mercury. While concerns about mercury's safety persisted, even then, modern dentistry has advanced significantly. At Clear Sky Dental Care, we now utilize composite resin, a safe and effective alternative, to restore decayed teeth and promote optimal oral health.
Amalgam (Metal) versus Tooth-Colored Fillings
While amalgam fillings are still used by some dentists, their drawbacks are significant, particularly their noticeable appearance. Metal fillings can detract from your smile and even stain the tooth, leading to a reluctance to smile confidently. Furthermore, many patients experience sensitivity or allergic reactions to metal, causing discomfort with hot or cold foods. In such cases, tooth-colored composite fillings offer a more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable alternative.
The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
While amalgam fillings are still used in some practices, their prominent appearance can significantly impact a patient's confidence. The visible metal, and the potential for dark gray staining, can make people hesitant to smile. Furthermore, metal sensitivity is a common issue, leading to discomfort when eating hot or cold foods. For these reasons, tooth-colored composite fillings offer a more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable alternative.
The Process of Receiving Tooth-Colored Fillings
For a metal-free cavity solution, we offer tooth-colored fillings that bond directly to your tooth, requiring minimal enamel removal and preserving more of your natural tooth structure. Our dentists meticulously remove only the decayed portion, ensuring a durable and long-lasting restoration. The process is comfortable, beginning with numbing the area before removing the damaged portion and applying the composite resin layer by layer. A curing light hardens the material, creating a strong bond, and we finish by polishing and checking your bite. With proper care, including regular hygiene and checkups, these fillings can last about ten years. To minimize staining, similar to natural teeth, limit consumption of staining foods and drinks like coffee and dark sauces, and brush or rinse immediately after. If you're looking for a natural-looking, metal-free cavity solution, contact us to schedule an appointment and restore your smile.