Questions about White Fillings

Encinitas, Carlsbad, and San Diego, CA.

What are tooth-colored fillings?

Tooth-colored fillings are metal-free fillings made of porcelain or composite resin. They are color-matched to your natural tooth and usually require less tooth reduction than metal fillings.

 

What is the difference between fillings, inlays and onlays?

Composite fillings start out as a paste that is molded into place and then hardened and polished. They are used to fill smaller cavities. Porcelain inlays and onlays are made in a lab and are used to fill larger cavities. Inlays are placed in between the cusp tips. Onlays can fill a rather significant area and can cover one or more cusp tips, but preserve more of your natural tooth than a crown.

 

Why should I bother with a tooth-colored filling in the back of my mouth?

There are several reasons to use tooth-colored fillings, even in areas that are not easily visible. First, metal fillings in the back of your mouth can be seen when you talk and laugh, even if you do not notice them in the mirror.

 

More importantly, tooth-colored fillings are better for your teeth. The mercury in metal fillings expands and contracts, so metal fillings can damage your teeth, make them brittle, and lead to further decay. Tooth-colored fillings are stable and do not harm your teeth. They can even make them stronger.

 

Will I be able to feel my fillings with my tongue or when I chew?

No. Your filling will be perfectly matched to the shape of your tooth. It will fit seamlessly so that there are no discernible edges. Dr. Walsh-Cole will adjust your bite on the filling so that the opposing teeth will fit perfectly.

 

What If I already have metal fillings?

We can remove your old fillings if you wish and replace them with beautiful, tooth-colored fillings. In the process Dr. Walsh-Cole will check for any damage caused by your old filling and remove decay.

 

I have a “white” filling that looks like a big stain on my tooth. How are your tooth-colored fillings different?

This is a common problem with older tooth-colored materials and with fillings that have not been properly placed and solidly bonded to your tooth. Older materials were more porous and stained easily As these fillings age, stain is often seen around the margins.

 

Dr. Walsh-Cole can remove these old fillings and replace them with beautiful, state-of-the-art tooth-colored fillings that truly match your natural tooth color, are resistant to staining, and have a precise fit.

 

You can learn more about your options by reading our Tooth-Colored, Metal Free Fillings page and our Inlays and Onlays page. Please contact us today to schedule your complimentary cosmetic consultation in the Encinitas, San Diego, Del Mar, Carlsbad and Rancho Santa Fe, California area today.