At Valenta Dental, a white filling is a tooth-colored material that replaces tooth structures that have decayed or damaged areas. White fillings are also used to fill small gaps between the teeth or to cover stains that will not respond to whitening treatments. Some patients choose white fillings to improve the look of their smile, while others prefer them because they match their teeth better. They are made from a composite resin material that closely matches the natural color of your teeth.
The Procedure for White Fillings
Our dentist will first remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth using dental instruments, such as a drill or laser. The tooth is then shaped to create space for the placement of the filling material. Next, the dentist will apply an etching solution or gel to the prepared tooth surface to ensure a strong bond between the filling material and the tooth. This etching solution creates microscopic roughness on the tooth, allowing the filling material to adhere effectively. After etching, the tooth is rinsed and dried, and a bonding agent is applied to the prepared tooth surface.
Our dentist will apply the composite resin material in layers to the prepared tooth. Each layer is carefully shaped and contoured to match the natural tooth structure. A special curing light is then used to harden and set each composite material layer. This process is repeated until the filling reaches the desired shape and thickness.
Once the filling is in place, the dentist will check your bite to ensure proper alignment and make any necessary adjustments. The excess filling material is trimmed and polished to achieve a smooth and natural-looking result. Polishing helps reduce any roughness and ensures a comfortable bite.
The Advantages of White Fillings
Aesthetics
The most noticeable advantage of white fillings is their ability to blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth. They are available in various shades, allowing your dentist to match the filling close to the color of your existing teeth. This results in a more natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance, especially for front teeth or other visible mouth areas. White fillings help maintain the beauty of your smile while addressing dental issues.
Preservation of Tooth Structure
White fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to amalgam fillings. The composite resin material bonds directly to the tooth, allowing more conservative preparations. This means that more of your natural tooth structure can be preserved, resulting in a more robust and healthier tooth overall.
Bonding Strength
White fillings create a strong bond with the tooth structure. The composite resin material chemically bonds to the tooth, enhancing the overall strength and stability of the restored tooth. This bonding characteristic helps to support the tooth structure and can minimize the risk of further damage or fractures.
White fillings, composite fillings, or tooth-colored fillings are popular dental restoration options used to repair teeth affected by decay, fractures, or other forms of damage. Contact Valenta Dental at 1838 Dunlap Ave, Marinette, WI 54143, or call (715) 735-5626 to learn more about white fillings.
