4921 State St 26 E #100, Lafayette, IN 47905
Restore Your Tooth With a Natural Look
If our dentists, Dr. Shane T. Cope or Dr. Melinda Bodine, detect tooth decay, they may recommend a tooth-colored filling to restore the tooth. Tooth-colored fillings also referred to as white fillings or composite fillings, are an excellent choice for effectively and aesthetically repairing decayed or damaged teeth. For more information on the benefits of our tooth-colored dental fillings in Lafayette, Indiana, we welcome you to call or visit us at Highland Creek Family Dental East.
Why Choose Composite Dental Fillings
Traditionally, dental fillings have been made of silver amalgam. However, our dental office uses only composite, or tooth-colored, filling material. Our dentists and team prefer using composite filling materials to provide patients with a more natural-looking result and to promote better long-term oral health. There are many benefits to composite fillings, including:
- Material that bonds to your tooth to provide more support for the tooth’s structural integrity
- Reduced risk of the treated tooth breaking or fracturing in the future
- Insulation from temperature changes caused by foods and beverages
- Better seals around the edges of the damaged area, increasing the tooth’s resistance to decay and leaks
- The ability to correct cavities that are too small for amalgam fillings to repair
- Fillings that can be repaired and replaced without being removed from the tooth
- No mercury or other metals are used, making the filling safer
Composite Fillings That Match Your Smile
When you receive a composite dental filling in Lafayette, our dentists will carefully select a filling that matches your natural tooth color to give you a more beautiful and healthier-looking smile. Fillings can usually be placed in a single appointment.
For more information about composite dental fillings and to make an appointment with our dentists, contact our office today.
FAQs About Tooth-Colored Filling
Q. What are the benefits of tooth-colored fillings compared to metal fillings?
A. Tooth-colored fillings, also called composite fillings, are designed to closely match the natural color of your teeth, creating a seamless and attractive result. Unlike metal (amalgam) fillings, composites won’t leave dark or gray discoloration and blend naturally into your smile. They also bond directly to the tooth, allowing the dentist to preserve more healthy tooth structure and reducing the likelihood of fractures over time.
Q. Are composite fillings as long-lasting as metal fillings?
A. Yes, composite fillings are strong, reliable, and long-lasting. With proper oral care, they can last up to 10 years or longer, making them a durable option for both children and adults. Composite materials form a secure bond with the tooth, offering excellent resistance to everyday wear. While they may stain slightly over time, regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings help keep them looking their best.
Q. How do composite fillings help protect teeth from further decay?
A. After a cavity is removed, a composite filling seals the tooth and helps block out bacteria that can lead to future decay. Because the material bonds tightly to the tooth, it reinforces the remaining structure and restores strength, helping your tooth stay healthy and functional for years to come.
Q. Do tooth-colored fillings require special care?
A. Caring for composite fillings is just like caring for your natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing, along with routine dental visits, are key to maintaining their appearance and performance. To reduce staining, it’s helpful to limit foods and beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine. Unlike metal fillings, composite fillings don’t expand or contract with temperature changes, which helps protect your tooth from cracks or damage.
Q. Can composite fillings be used for more than cavities?
A. Absolutely. Composite fillings are very versatile and can be used to repair chipped, cracked, worn, or broken teeth. The material is applied in layers and carefully shaped to restore the tooth’s natural look and function. This makes composite fillings an excellent option for enhancing both dental health and the appearance of your smile—ideal for patients of all ages.