Tooth-Colored Fillings in Wyomissing, PA

Cavities, one of the most common dental problems, develop when bacteria attack your dental enamel and cause tooth decay. In the past, cavities were treated with a material called amalgam, a mixture of different metals, like silver or mercury. We now know that amalgam fillings do not bond as well with the teeth, and the mercury may be hazardous to your general health. At Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics, our team of skilled general dentists uses tooth-colored fillings made with composite resin to fill cavities, repair chipped teeth, and protect tooth structure for Wyomissing and Reading, PA patients. We can often remove old metal fillings and replace them with tooth-colored fillings for a more reliable and attractive restorative treatment. If you or a family member may have a cavity or damaged tooth, schedule a visit with our friendly team to learn if a composite filling is right for your smile.

Composite resin is a versatile material that can be used to address a range of problems with the teeth, including minor cavities, chips, spaces, uneven tooth structure, or wear on the enamel caused by bruxism (teeth grinding). Since the composite resin is tinted to match your natural teeth, tooth-colored fillings can be used on both the front and back teeth for a seamless result. Composite fillings also require less tooth structure to be removed in order to place, allowing us to take a more conservative approach to your family's care. If you have metal fillings, talk to our team about having them removed and replaced with composite resin. Composites are durable, lasting, and safe for patients of all ages.

Receiving a filling at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics is usually a simple procedure. The area surrounding the cavity will be numbed with a local anesthetic to minimize your discomfort. Other sedation methods may be considered for any anxieties or fears to keep you relaxed. After you are ready, the affected enamel is removed using advanced and conservative techniques. Once the enamel is removed and the area is disinfected, the cavity will be filled with the composite resin and set (hardened with a curing light). We will polish the filling material so it blends smoothly with your natural teeth, and we will assess your bite for comfort.

You should be able to get back to your day after your filling is complete, but you might have some sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages for 1 – 3 days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken if necessary to address discomfort or inflammation; however, you should not experience any serious problems. If after a few days the filling feels uneven or high, please contact our office so that we can arrange to make a quick adjustment. Your filling should be kept clean by following a regular home care routine with daily flossing and brushing. During your annual dental exam, our dental experts will check your filling to make certain it still supports your healthy smile.

Tooth-colored fillings are a standard restorative treatment for dental cavities that are usually covered, at least in part, by dental insurance. A team member will contact your insurance company to determine your exact coverage before calculating any estimated out-of-pocket costs. To make your family's dental care as affordable and convenient as possible, Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics accepts a number of flexible payment options, including interest-free financing, and offers an in-house dental wellness plan.

Are composite fillings superior to silver amalgam fillings?
In recent years, the dental industry has learned that composite fillings are superior when filling a cavity than silver amalgam fillings. The composite resin used to fill the tooth is much more pliable and less likely to crack and should adhere to the tooth better for a longer period of time.

Do tooth-colored fillings look like my natural teeth?
When you get your dental fillings at our Wyomissing, PA office, we can customize the composite resin to match the shade of your natural teeth, which many of our patients appreciate.

How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
Tooth-colored fillings can last up to 12 years if they're properly cared for with regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings and exams.

Cavities, chips, and enamel wear can often be repaired with tooth-colored composite resin fillings. Treating these types of dental concerns early on can often prevent the need for more expensive and extensive care down the road. Our dentists use precision skill and technique to meet restorative needs with composite fillings that blend naturally with your smile. If you think you or your child has tooth decay or other concerns, schedule a visit with our caring dentists at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics in Wyomissing and Reading, PA.