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Tooth Colored Fillings on Long Island
Tooth Colored Fillings in Woodbury NY 11797
Tooth-Colored Fillings on Long Island NY
When teeth are decayed or damaged, this often signals that a dental filling is necessary. There are several filling types to explore. One of the most common that our Long Island cosmetic dentist offers are the resin fillings that match the color of your natural teeth. Compared to metal tooth fillings, the tooth-colored type is a lot less noticeable, providing a more natural smile. When they are done correctly, the human eye can usually never detect them.
Before & Afters of Tooth-Colored Fillings
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What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings allow your dentist to repair your tooth without the repair being noticeable. The composite matches your natural tooth color so that you cannot tell the difference between the filling and the remainder of your natural teeth.
There are several benefits associated with Tooth-Colored Fillings on Long Island |
| The material is durable |
| In most cases, the dentist can do this type of filling in a single visit |
| Following the procedure, there is usually only temporary temperature sensitivity |
| The fillings look natural and match your teeth |
| Dentist can use this type of filling for both large damage and minor flaws |
| The material is resistant to fracture |
For this type of filling, less of your natural tooth needs to be removed in most cases. This helps to maintain more of your natural tooth so that it has more stability. This is especially true when compared to amalgam fillings which usually require more of the natural tooth to be removed. With a smaller composite filling, it looks more natural and can be more durable.
What is a Tooth-Colored Filling Also Called?
A tooth-colored filling is also referred to as a composite resin filling. They are made from a synthetic polymer material. To create a filling that is tooth-colored and hard, the filling is a mixture of quartz or glass particles with the resin.
These fillings are generally considered to be the most versatile compared to other filling types. Dentists have been using tooth-colored fillings since the 1960s. Since that time, the materials used have changed to ensure a greater level of durability and a more natural look.
There are various shades of white available with this type of filling. The dentist will make a note of the color of your natural teeth so that they can choose the composite that matches them the best.
Due to how well the resin is matched up to your natural teeth, you can use this type of filling for most areas of the mouth since the filling blends in so well. You can even use this type of filling for the front teeth since you cannot tell the difference between the natural tooth and the filling.
What Are the Reasons for Composite Fillings?
There are several reasons why a dentist might recommend that you get a tooth-colored filling. One of the biggest reasons is because you have a cavity or tooth decay. When you have a cavity, your dentist will drill out the decayed area of your tooth leaving a hole in its place. After this, the filling material is put into the hole to fill it.
If you have broken or cracked teeth, a filling might be used to repair it. This can happen as the result of biting down too hard on something or an injury to the mouth.
If you are having sensitivity or pain in one of your teeth, a filling might help to alleviate this. When these symptoms occur, it is usually due to an issue with the tooth, such as a crack or a cavity. Your dentist will examine the affected tooth and determine whether a filling is the best way to fix the issue and reduce your pain and sensitivity.
Over time, your teeth can wear down. This is usually due to biting your nails, grinding your teeth or another similar habit. When your teeth are worn down, your dentist might recommend that you get a filling to repair the damage.
Endodontal disease, also referred to as reversible pulpitis, may be helped with a filling. This condition can occur after a cavity and it is characterized by an infection of the tooth’s pulp. Your dentist will remove the area of infection and then use a filling to replace what they removed.
A filling can help to preserve your tooth since it allows the dentist to remove the damaged area and replace it. Just make sure to get a filling when your dentist recommends it so that it can be as small as possible. The longer your wait, the more damage or infection can affect your tooth.
How Are Composite Fillings Placed?
In most cases, it will only take a single visit for your dentist to place a tooth-colored filling. There are several steps that your dentist will take to place a filling in your tooth, including:
The first step is to choose the resin color that best matches the natural shade of your teeth. Make sure to use good dental hygiene before your appointment to ensure the best match.
Your dentist will numb the area around the tooth that is getting the filling to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
The decayed part of the tooth is then removed through the use of a drill.
The dentist will then prepare your tooth after cleaning it and drying it thoroughly. In some cases, tooth shaving is needed for extensive damage.
Etching and bonding the affected tooth is the next step in the process.
Now, your dentist will start to apply the composite to the hole in the tooth. It is done in layers and each layer is cured before the next one is applied.
Once all of the resin is in place, the dentist will contour the tooth so that it has the same shape as your natural tooth. After this is done, your dentist will polish your tooth.
How Long Do Tooth-Colored Fillings Last?
You can expect this type of filling to last for an average of seven to 10 years. However, with proper care, some dentists state that this type of filling could last even longer than 10 years. Of course, several things determine exactly how long your filling will remain in place.
Proper dental hygiene is very important for the lifespan of your tooth-colored fillings. You should brush and floss the tooth with the filling as you do your natural teeth. This helps to preserve the filling and reduce the risk of it wearing down prematurely.
What you eat and drink also has an impact on the longevity of your composite fillings. Good oral hygiene is based on a balanced diet. Consider the following when you have fillings:
- Reduce how many sugary drinks and foods you consume
- Avoid sticky and chewy foods, such as jerky and gum
- When eating hard foods, be sure to not bite down too hard
- These fillings can become stained if you consume too many dark beverages
Make sure to get regular dental checkups because at these appointments, your dentist will examine your fillings to make sure that they are still in good condition.
There are some signs that might indicate that you need to replace a filling:
- When you are brushing your teeth, there is some sensitivity
- You might experience cold and hot sensitivity
- Your filled tooth experienced an injury
- When examining the filling, you can see a crack, chip or other visible damage
- At the location of the filling you are experiencing pain
- Your filling fell out or it is loose
How Much Do Tooth-Colored Fillings Cost on Long Island, NY?
Several factors come into play when determining the cost of tooth-colored fillings. How many cavities you have will have a major role in the cost because a filling is needed for each cavity.
The next factor is what materials the dentist uses. Tooth-colored resin tends to be a little more expensive than silver or metal amalgam fillings.
Location also plays a role in the cost of your filling. In this area of Long Island, the average cost for this type of filling is $90 to $250 per tooth. Whether or not you have insurance and the exact policy that you have will also make a difference in the cost. Dental insurance does generally cover a dental filling because it is not viewed as a cosmetic procedure.
Composite fillings are a popular choice due to their natural look and overall durability. If you have a cavity or other tooth damage that could benefit from a filling, make an appointment with your dentist to learn more about tooth-colored fillings and if they are the right choice for you.
How can I learn more about tooth-colored fillings?
For more information about tooth-colored fillings in Woodbury, Long Island NY 11797, please call our cosmetic dentist office at 516-340-6012 or schedule an appointment online. Dr. Kate Brayman and our friendly dental office staff invite any of your questions.
We also welcome residents of Syosset, Oyster Bay, Huntington, Melville, and Plainview who are interested in improving their oral health!
Major Insurance Providers Accepted
At Kate Brayman DDS, we accept most major insurance plans. Here is list of some of the plans we accept. Please contact our dental office if you do not see your insurance provider listed. Please note we do not participate with DMO/HMO insurance.
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WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY
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Long Island Dentist at Kate Brayman, DDS
Dr. Kate Brayman is a leading cosmetic dentist serving Long Island and Woodbury NY 11797. A graduate from the New York University College of Dentistry, Dr. Kate Brayman brings passion and artistry into dentistry. She is certified by the American Board of Dental Public Health. Her professional memberships include the American Dental Association, the New York State Dental Association and the New York County Dental Society.
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