While silver fillings have been used for decades in dentistry, recent research shows that the expansive nature of silver fillings can actually fracture and crack teeth.  Lana Rozenberg, D.D.S. in New York City offers patients many alternatives to silver fillings, including resin (tooth-colored) fillings.  Tooth-colored fillings are a great alternative that can create a bright, youthful smile, but should only be used in cases where tooth structure and strength is not compromised.

Restoring a tooth with a resin filling is similar to the process used with traditional silver fillings.  First, the decay is removed and the tooth is prepared to receive the composite.  The composite is layered into the cavity and hardened with a curing light.  To finish the procedure, the filling is polished and the bite is checked. Because resin fillings are color blended to match your teeth so perfectly, patients look cavity- free.

Resin fillings typically last anywhere from 6 to 12 years and usually only require one visit to complete.  The resin filling composite bonds with your tooth to further support the remaining tooth structure, while helping to prevent any further breakage or damage to the tooth.  There is little sensitivity to hot or cold items that is often experienced with silver amalgam fillings.  There is also less drilling involved with resin fillings.

FAQs About Resin Fillings:

What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Made Of?

Tooth-colored/white fillings are made of a soft putty-like resin that is hardened in the mouth with a blue curing light.

Do Tooth-Colored Resin Fillings Last As Long As Silver Fillings?

When the restoration is performed properly, some tooth-colored fillings can last as long as silver fillings. The compression and bonding strength of resin materials has dramatically improved over the years, resulting in an increased life span for tooth-colored resin fillings.

Should I Change All My Silver Fillings To Tooth-Colored Fillings?

It is usually not recommended to change all silver fillings to tooth-colored fillings because the drilling process to remove silver fillings can be irritating to the tooth. If there is a cavity or cracks in any silver fillings, then tooth- colored fillings are a great option.

For more information about tooth-colored resin fillings, contact Dr. Rozenberg and the staff at Lana Rozenberg D.D.S. at (212) 265-7724 or click here to schedule a consultation online for our New York City Dental Office.