White Fillings
Cosmetic Dentistry in Oklahoma City
Also known as composite fillings, white fillings are matched to the color of your teeth. As with traditional amalgam fillings, they're used to restore decayed teeth and repair defects.
Although they're most often used on the front teeth, to maintain the natural appearance, they can also be used on back teeth if they're small or potentially visible when you smile or laugh.
How are white fillings done?
White fillings, like other fillings, are done in one visit.
- After removing the decayed part of the tooth, Dr. Duncan will use a very mild etching solution to etch the tooth surface
- He'll then brush a bonding agent onto the tooth
- Then several thin layers of a tooth-colored composite are applied
- After the white filling is in place, it's chemically hardened, or cured, with a special light
- Finally, Dr. Duncan will polish it
Advantages of white fillings
White fillings are more conservative and do not require removal of healthy tooth structure. They also are bonded to the tooth strengthening the final restored tooth rather than setting it up for fracture.
- The mercury in amalgam fillings is thought to be potentially toxic
- Many people feel that white fillings represent a more advanced technology
- White fillings are more similar in appearance to the tooth
- White fillings are resistant to fracture
If you have a growing cavity or would like to have a tooth defect repaired, white fillings may be the answer. If you have old metal fillings, Dr. Duncan can replace them with the simpler, more attractive white fillings.
If you're considering white fillings in Oklahoma City, please call or e-mail us today to schedule your initial consultation.
