About Tooth-Colored Fillings
Dental cavities, one of the most common dental problems, are easily treated with tooth-colored fillings at Southern Cal Smiles in Woodland Hills, CA. After the damage or decay has been cleaned, fillings seal off the cavity to prevent bacteria from accumulating again. The filling material mimics the color of natural teeth very closely for a superior aesthetic result. Dental filling material evens out the surface of the tooth to make biting and chewing easier while also preventing further tooth decay. Since tooth-colored materials blend in with your teeth, it will look natural when you open your mouth to smile, laugh, and talk.
Old fillings were a mixture of different metals, which could be conspicuous in the mouth and contain mercury (harmful to the body). Nowadays, dental laboratories use tooth-colored materials like composite resins and porcelain to make fillings that blend in naturally with the surrounding teeth. In addition to tooth-colored fillings for new cavities, cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Susan Fredericks can remove old, metal fillings for patients and replace them with tooth-colored fillings.
What to Expect
A tooth-colored filling can be performed in our Woodland Hills office with local anesthesia for any pain and discomfort. Once you are prepared, Dr. Fredericks can use a drill to carefully remove the decayed area of the enamel. Then, Dr. Fredericks will lightly etch the tooth with an acid gel to help bond the tooth-colored filling when it is placed. The resin is applied and hardened with a special light. Dr. Fredericks will continue to apply layers of resin and harden them with the light until the tooth is strong and even. Any excess resin can be polished and smoothed with the drill.
Treatment Aftercare
Immediately after the filling is placed and dried, Dr. Fredericks will finish and polish the tooth for smooth edges. Once the anesthesia wears off, you may notice sensitivity to heat, cold, sweetness, pressure, and more. This sensitivity is only temporary and should not last more than 1 – 2 weeks. You should continue a good home oral care routine, including brushing and flossing, in addition to regular dental exams and cleanings. Dr. Fredericks will monitor the condition of your filling at each visit and help you determine if you need a replacement.
Insurance Coverage
Most dental insurance companies cover part of the cost of a tooth-colored filling whether it is a new filling or a replacement for an old silver amalgam (metal) filling. Our office will help you determine your coverage and personal cost during your consultation. If you don’t have or don’t want to use your insurance, Southern Cal Smiles has several payment and financing options.