Fillings (Tooth Colored)
Used to prevent the spread of tooth decay or correct any cosmetic damage, a filling is just one of the ways we preserve your health. Before placement, any decay must be drilled out. We offer local anesthesia along with nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to ensure maximum comfort for our patients. There are two main different types of fillings: older amalgam (otherwise known as silver fillings) and newer composite resin (which includes glass ionomer), the color of which can be customized to match your natural teeth. We only place the composite resin type of fillings that will match your teeth.
Composite Resin
Since the color of a composite resin filling can be customized, it is the most aesthetically pleasing option. Composite resin is ideal for repairing chipped or cracked teeth, filling in a tooth gap, correcting dental discoloration, protecting any exposed tooth root from gum recession, or changing the shape of teeth. Patients may also choose composite resin for cavity fillings as they are bonded to the teeth in layers and therefore require less drilling away of the natural tooth.
Amalgam (not offered)
Made up of silver, copper, mercury, and tin, amalgam fillings are a durable and economical option for patients and can last years. We choose to not offer amalgam fillings at our office, but now you know.