Metal fillings are a thing of the past. At Andover Family Dentistry in Andover, KS, Dr. Howell uses tooth-colored composite resin for all fillings, ensuring your dental work is virtually invisible. Composite fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth while providing strong, durable protection against decay.
Whether you need a new filling or want to replace old metal fillings, tooth-colored restorations give you a healthier, more attractive smile.
Why Composite Fillings Are Better
Tooth-colored composite resin offers several advantages over traditional metal fillings.
Benefits include:
- Natural appearance that matches your tooth color
- Bonds directly to tooth structure for added strength
- Requires less removal of healthy tooth tissue
- No metal means no expansion or contraction with temperature changes
- Mercury-free for peace of mind
Composite fillings restore your tooth’s function while preserving its natural appearance.
Blending Seamlessly With Your Smile
One of the biggest advantages of composite fillings is how natural they look. Dr. Howell carefully matches the filling material to the exact shade of your tooth, ensuring the restoration blends invisibly with your smile.
Unlike metal fillings that stand out when you laugh or speak, composite fillings are virtually undetectable. Most people won’t even know you’ve had dental work done.
Conservative Treatment That Preserves Your Tooth
Composite fillings bond directly to your tooth structure, which means Dr. Howell only needs to remove the decayed portion. Metal fillings, by contrast, require more tooth preparation to create the mechanical retention needed to hold them in place.
This conservative approach keeps your tooth stronger and healthier in the long run. The more natural tooth structure you keep, the better your tooth can withstand chewing forces and resist future problems.
Replacing Old Metal Fillings
If you have old metal fillings that are worn, cracked, or simply unsightly, we can replace them with tooth-colored composite restorations. This not only improves the appearance of your smile but also removes fillings that may be compromising your tooth’s structure.
Replacing metal fillings with composite gives you a fresh start with a more attractive, conservative restoration.
Built To Last
With proper care, composite fillings can last seven to 10 years or longer. While they may not last quite as long as metal fillings, their aesthetic and conservative advantages make them the preferred choice for most patients.
The longevity of your filling depends on its size and location, your oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle factors like grinding or clenching. We’ll monitor your fillings during routine checkups and let you know if any need repair or replacement.
What To Expect During Treatment
Getting a tooth-colored filling is quick and straightforward. Dr. Howell numbs the area to keep you comfortable, removes the decay, and prepares the tooth. The composite resin is applied in layers, shaped to match your tooth’s natural contours, and hardened with a special curing light. The filling is then polished to a smooth, natural finish.
The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. You can eat and drink normally as soon as the numbness wears off.
Caring For Your Fillings
Composite fillings require the same care as your natural teeth.
To keep your fillings in great shape:
- Brush twice a day and floss daily
- Avoid chewing ice or hard candy
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Visit us regularly for checkups and cleanings
It’s normal to experience some sensitivity to temperature or pressure for a few days after getting a filling. This usually resolves on its own. If sensitivity persists or worsens, contact us so we can check the filling and make any necessary adjustments.
Beautiful, Functional Restorations
At Andover Family Dentistry, tooth-colored fillings provide the perfect combination of aesthetics and function. Dr. Howell uses high-quality materials and precise techniques to deliver fillings that look natural, feel comfortable, and protect your teeth for years to come.
Call our Andover, KS office or book online to schedule your appointment. Whether you need a new filling or want to replace old metal restorations, we’re here to provide the care you deserve.