Tooth-colored fillings are durable restorations that blend seamlessly with your smile. The good news is that they are easy to care for and should last several years with proper care. Here's what you should know.
Proper Care for Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings are made of composite resin, a mixture of finely ground glass or quartz and resin. The material is versatile, and we can customize its shade to match your tooth; once cured, it becomes very durable.
Caring for composite, tooth-colored fillings is much like caring for your natural teeth. Here are some helpful tips:
- Consistent daily brushing and flossing — Brushing twice per day and flossing once helps protect your teeth from decay and cavities.
- Never use teeth as tools — Teeth are for eating, not opening or carrying things.
- Avoid biting directly into hard foods — Cut hard bread, apples, or carrots into bite-sized pieces to protect your teeth and restorations from damage.
- Limit tooth-staining foods and beverages as composite can discolor over time — The culprits to watch out for are black coffee and tea, red wine, curries, soy sauce, and marinara sauce.
- Wear a nightguard — If you clench or grind your teeth at night, wearing a nightguard can protect them from damage.
Understanding Your Options
Like most dental restorations, tooth-colored fillings will wear over time and may be prone to staining or discoloration. Because they're an additive procedure, you can replace them as needed.
Tooth-colored fillings provide advantages over the metal amalgam material we used in the past, such as:
- Protects more natural tooth structure
- Doesn't react to temperature
- Provides seamless aesthetics
- Bonds directly to the tooth
Contact The Smile Shop
If you have questions about tooth-colored fillings in Durham, NC, call our team at (919) 941-5549 for more information.