Tooth-Colored Fillings
in Melbourne, FL
Services
Restorative Dentistry
Cavities, one of the most common occurring dental problems, form when bacteria attacks your dental enamel. In the past, dental cavities were filled with a material called amalgam, which is a combination of metals, like silver or mercury. However, we now know that amalgam fillings do not adhere very well with the teeth and the mercury can be dangerous to your remaining natural teeth and overall health. At Sangiv I. Patel, D.D.S., PA in Melbourne, FL, experienced dentist Dr. Sangiv I. Patel offers tooth-colored fillings made from a composite resin to fill and protect cavities. Dr. Patel can also remove old metal fillings and replace them with tooth-colored fillings for a safer and better-looking cavity treatment.
Tooth-colored fillings usually cover the decayed area in the tooth after it is treated by Dr. Patel. Composite resin is a versatile material that can be used to address other issues with your teeth, including cracks or excessive wear on the enamel by teeth grinding (bruxism). Since the composite resin is colored to match your natural teeth, fillings can be used on both the front and back teeth for a seamless finish. If you have metal fillings, talk to Dr. Patel about having them removed and replaced with tooth-colored fillings. The process of removing and replacing silver fillings normally takes two in-office visits, but it is very worth it for the condition of your affected tooth.
Getting a tooth-colored filling at our private practice is usually a simple procedure. The area surrounding the cavity will be numbed with a local anesthetic to minimize your discomfort. Other forms of sedation can be discussed if you experience any significant fears or anxieties to help keep you relaxed during the procedure. After you are prepared, the infected enamel is cleared away with a dental drill that Dr. Patel will select based on where the cavity is located in the tooth and the level of decay. After the enamel is treated and the tooth is cleaned, the area will be filled with the composite resin and set. Dr. Patel will polish the filling material so it feels comfortable and matches your natural teeth.
You should be able to return to your normal daily routine after your filling is complete, but you might have some sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages for 1 – 3 days. You may take over-the-counter pain medication to treat discomfort, but you should not have any major issues. If after a few days the filling feels high or uneven, please contact our office. Your tooth-colored filling can be kept clean by following a normal home oral care routine with daily brushing and flossing. At your annual exam, Dr. Patel will assess your filling and decide if it needs to be repaired or replaced at any point.
Tooth-colored fillings are a common treatment for cavities that are usually covered partially by dental insurance. A member of our team will contact your insurance company to determine your exact coverage before calculating your bill. If you do not have insurance, Dr. Patel can discuss the payments accepted by our office during your consultation, as well as medical financing options.
Cavities may start as a normal issue, but it's important to have them fixed before they become a big issue. At Sangiv I. Patel, D.D.S., PA in Melbourne, FL, tooth decay and cavities can be corrected with composite resin fillings. Dr. Patel matches the color of your natural teeth so you get a healthy, attractive smile. If you suspect you or a family member has a cavity, contact our office to schedule an exam with Dr. Patel.
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