Bloomington, IL area dentist describes the benefits of tooth colored fillings

Cavities are an issue that can affect patients in the area of Bloomington, IL. and across the world. This condition can result in loss of healthy tooth structure. When left untreated, patients may experience severe discomfort, toothaches, or even need treatments such as root canal therapy to bring the smile back to health. Instead, with early diagnosis and treatment, patients can enjoy the benefits of fillings. Our practice focuses on aesthetic solutions, and we offer tooth-colored fillings as a restorative option.

The case for tooth-colored fillings

Tooth-colored fillings are comprised of composite resin. This is a tooth-colored, clay-like material that a dentist can mold around a tooth or inside of a tooth, such as in the case of treating areas of decay. This material has many benefits for our patients to consider:

• Composite resin fillings are safe to use within the smile, thanks to the biocompatible material used to achieve restoration of the tooth.
• Composite resin fillings are less costly than using a full dental crown to cover a tooth.
• Composite resin fillings match the existing tooth enamel to ensure seamless integration into the smile.
• Composite resin fillings are durable, and can withstand standard chewing forces.
• Composite resin fillings can last many years before replacement is necessary as long as they are well maintained.
• Composite resin fillings look like natural tooth enamel once they are shaped and polished.

Where else can composite resin materials be used?

Dentists love using composite resin materials for solutions other than just fillings to restore areas of decay. In fact, many patients choose to use this material to repair broken teeth, cover permanently stained teeth, improve an unusually shaped tooth, or to fill a gap between the teeth near the front of the mouth. This restorative material is incredibly versatile, and has been used for many years in dental procedures for both restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

Is composite resin stain-resistant?

Unfortunately, composite resin materials are susceptible to staining. However, because they are so affordable, replacement is not as much of an issue as it can be with other restorative options including porcelain crowns. We encourage patients to visit our practice regularly for evaluations and to decide if replacement is necessary or if they can simply be polished to return them to a more natural shade.

Alternatives to composite resin

Another option to Composite Resin are inlays, onlays, or full-coverage crowns. These are ceramic restorations that may set in, or on, a tooth to repair an area of breakage or decay. Patients are urged to contact our team and schedule an appointment to decide which is best for their needs and the best long term treatment for the tooth.

Are you considering tooth colored fillings?

Now is the perfect time to connect with the team at Eastland Dental Center for trusted dentistry with Drs. Mike and Marisa Milligan. This team of professionals in Bloomington, IL is here to help patients with a wide range of solutions for their smiles, including restoring the teeth after cavities have developed. Contact the office at (309) 663-4711 and visit us in Suite 101 at 1404 Eastland Drive.