Tooth-Colored Fillings - Atherton, San Mateo, and Surrounding Areas

Most patients Dr. David Love sees in his office ask for tooth-colored fillings rather than silver fillings. Old silver-amalgam fillings often show signs of wear and do not bond to tooth structure. Unfortunately, when the filling gets loose it can cause tooth fractures.

Whether Dr. David Love is treating new cavities or removing old defective fillings, he always recommends using modern tooth colored restorations. The advantage of upgrading to tooth-colored fillings is that the newer material is bonded to tooth structure unlike traditional silver-mercury fillings. Bonding occurs between the dental polymer material and the tooth structure. This helps to strengthen the remaining tooth structure and seals the tooth from microscopic bacterial leakage. New cavities treated with tooth-colored fillings may also require less tooth structure to be removed versus traditional silver-amalgam fillings.

Tooth-colored fillings are completed in one appointment. The material used is similar to the dental polymers used in bonding front teeth. Fillings are placed in layers to optimize strength and natural appearance. Teeth will look natural, as if there is no filling present.

If you would like to learn more about tooth-colored fillings, contact Dr. David Love in Atherton today.

Inlays/Onlays

When cavity size increases and the tooth has damage on multiple surfaces, Dr. David Love recommends using laboratory-fabricated tooth colored restorations called inlays or onlays. These materials mimic natural tooth structure and are bonded to the tooth.

The durability of these restorations is greater than the directly placed fillings. Like porcelain veneers, two appointments are necessary. At the first appointment, the cavity is prepared, an impression is taken, and a temporary is placed. The inlay or onlay is bonded in place at the second visit. Careful technique is used when preparing and placing these restorations to ensure high bond strength. A latex device is used to isolate the teeth, which prevents saliva from contaminating the bonding surface and helps to prevent exposure to mercury if old silver-amalgam fillings need to be removed.

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment for tooth-colored fillings or inlays and onlays, please contact cosmetic dentist Dr. David Love in Atherton today.