Dixon Dental Center

Tooth Colored Fillings: All You Need to Know

Tooth colored fillings provide a great solution for people looking to restore normal teeth function and shape. Has your dentist suggested getting fillings for your teeth problem but you’re not sure whether it’s the right solution for you? Read on to find all the details you need to make the final decision.

Tooth Colored Filling

Tooth Colored Fillings Match Your Teeth

Tooth colored fillings made from composite resins chemically bond with your teeth to improve function and aesthetic appeal. Since their color resembles natural teeth, composite fillings are a popular option for treating teeth in visible areas of the mouth or for people who prefer a more discreet and natural look. 

They Fix a Variety of Problems

Composite fillings can help fix a variety of teeth problems. You’re a good candidate for tooth colored fillings if you have:

  • Fractured or broken teeth
  • Chipped teeth
  • Decayed teeth
  • Worn teeth
  • Gaps between teeth

The Filling Process

First, the dentist numbs the tooth, removes the decay as needed, and carefully cleans the area. If the decay is too close to the nerve, the dentist applies medication for extra protection. Some shaving may be done if the tooth is severely damaged. 

Once the affected area is well prepared, they place the filling directly on the tooth and cure it with light for hardening. Finally, it’s polished and shaped to give your tooth an original look.

What to Expect After A Filling Procedure

After a dental filling, you may experience some sensitivity to air, and hot or cold foods. Your dentist will recommend that you avoid such foods to allow the filling to set. 

When the local anesthetic wears off, you may feel pain in the tooth that received the filling and the adjacent teeth. This is normal as the pain from the filling procedure can get transferred to other teeth but it should subside in the coming days. 

However, if you experience throbbing pain, a toothache, discomfort when you start to move your mouth, sharp edges on your teeth, or discover that the filling is too high, you need to contact your dentist ASAP for a follow-up.

What to Eat After A Filling Procedure

Composite fillings harden immediately under the curing light which means you can eat right after the procedure. However, you probably want to wait until the local anesthetic wears off to avoid biting your tongue, cheek, or lip. Try soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, or water. Finally, after the filling settles, consume chewy, hard, and sticky foods with care to avoid damaging them.

Composite Filling Aftercare 

The dentist will give you the following care instructions to ensure lasting service:

  • Practice proper oral hygiene
  • Eat healthy foods — limit sugary and acidic foods
  • Avoid staining foods and drinks like beets, red wine, and coffee
  • Break harmful habits like smoking, grinding teeth, and biting on hard objects
  • Attend regular dental visits

Contact Dixon Dental Center for Quality Tooth Filling Services

For unmatched tooth filling services, contact Dixon Dental Center. We are committed to providing a thorough examination and quality tooth filling work to restore your smile and confidence. Contact us today to book an appointment.