Composite Fillings in Minneapolis & Minnetonka, MN
At Holger Dental Group, we use composite fillings to treat tooth decay. If you live in Minnetonka or Minneapolis, MN, or the surrounding area and are looking for a natural-looking restoration, we encourage you to call and schedule an appointment. Our team has the necessary experience with placing these tooth-colored fillings and can ensure that the patient is comfortable throughout the procedure.
This is one of our most frequently used procedures since a filling is typically placed after removing tooth decay (common cavities). We can even replace amalgam fillings with composite ones if you have amalgam fillings now. To learn more, call and schedule a dental examination.
The Benefits of Getting a Tooth-Colored Filling
We can place a composite resin filling fairly quickly. This is an affordable and durable restoration that will look similar to a regular tooth. We make sure to complete the procedure comfortably, effectively, and fast way. In some situations, depending on the patient and where the filling will go, we can complete a filling every 30 minutes. We encourage you to consider the many benefits of getting tooth-colored fillings instead of amalgam ones.
Silver vs. Tooth-Colored Filling: What You Should Know
Tooth-colored fillings are safer for your health since they consist of resin or plastic material. Silver fillings are typically not silver but metal alloy that includes several mercury materials. There have been numerous health warnings regarding overexposure to mercury, which is why pregnant women are warned to stay away from tuna. While many people believe amalgam fillings are perfectly safe, the data can be contradictory from study to study. Suppose you want to avoid the risks that come with mercury exposure, select tooth-colored fillings, or replace your existing silver fillings. Visit our Minnetonka or Minneapolis, MN dental office for more information.
Composite Dental Fillings FAQ
Q. What is a composite resin (white filling)?
A. Resin fillings match the shade of your natural teeth while providing the necessary level of protection. While many refer to a composite resin as a “white” filling, the actual shade may be more of a crème if that is what is necessary to blend in. Composite resin fillings function in the same way amalgam ones do, so they are still effective for restoring teeth that have suffered from decay or fracture. However, they can blend in and become more discreet with other patients.
Q. What are the advantages of composite vs. amalgam fillings?
A. The biggest advantage of composite vs. amalgam fillings is that composite tooth-colored fillings do not stand out. If you have a cavity and need a filling, you can select a restoration that stands out when you smile or one that blends in. Patients do not have to worry about other people noticing the tooth-colored fillings. Another advantage is not having any mercury in the filling and decreasing the risk of other health risks.
Q. How are composite fillings used?
A. In our dental office, we use composite fillings to restore tooth structure after removing the pieces of the tooth that have decayed. In other cases, we will use composite fillings to restore tooth damage. For example, if a tooth is chipped or loses some enamel, a filling may be the appropriate restoration.
Q. Can anyone get a filling?
A. No. At Holger Dental Group, we place fillings frequently, but you need to have a certain amount of healthy tooth structure remaining for this type of restoration to work. If you miss too much of the tooth’s structure, a dental crown may be the better solution. In this case, a crown surrounds the tooth like a cap, providing a stronger and more protective restoration.
Q. What is the difference between tooth-colored or composite dental fillings?
A. Composite dental fillings are just one type of tooth-colored fillings available. While professionals can interchangeably use the alternate types of tooth-colored fillings, there is more than one way to receive a tooth-colored filling. Natural-looking fillings typically consist of resin, ceramic, plastic, or glass ionomer, the most common material being composite resin. While all materials are effective, glass ionomer lasts the least amount of time since the material is more fragile.
Q. How long do resin fillings last?
A. There is no set expiration date, but we warn patients that fillings can deteriorate and wear down just like normal teeth. This makes it important to practice good oral hygiene and brush with a soft or electronic toothbrush while avoiding biting down anything inedible like a pencil.
Q. Are there any special care instructions for cosmetic fillings?
A. No, you need to care for your fillings just like you do your other teeth. It would be best if you brushed at least twice a day and flossed daily. We recommend using fluoride toothpaste since this can help to strengthen your teeth further and prevent further decay. We may even recommend a fluoride treatment in our dental office in some cases. You should also avoid doing anything that could damage your teeth and wear a mouthguard if applicable. Keep in mind that a filling is there to restore your tooth structure, appearance, and functionality. This means we are not trying to restrict your activities or even what you eat. Instead, we place fillings to ensure your life is not interrupted and you can return to your normal daily activities quickly.
Q. When can I eat like normal?
A. If you need to have a filling placed, we will first need to remove the decayed portion of your tooth and complete a thorough cleaning. Next, we will place the composite resin filling material on your tooth and shape it before the hardening. The shape needs to be just right, so your bite will fit together correctly. It can take a couple of days to get used to eating on the tooth. Thus, while it will not be particularly uncomfortable, you may have one day where you feel as though you are adjusting. For more specific information, call us to schedule an appointment.