WHAT ARE TOOTH-COLORED FILLINGS?

Proper care and maintenance of your tooth-colored fillings will prolong their lifespan, so they will last and look their best for years to come.

• New composite fillings are hardened and cured with a special light and do not require any precaution concerning chewing. However, we do not recommend eating anything until the numbness has worn off. Also, be especially mindful of “front-tooth” composites and do not bite off apples, corn on the cob, etc… as they may break, chip or fracture.

• You may experience sensitivity to cold or hot foods with a new composite filling, which is normal and should dissipate over time.

• If you feel that your bite is “high” or “uneven,” please call our office immediately to schedule an adjustment.

• If you have discomfort and are not allergic to aspirin or ibuprofen, take 2-3 Advil every 6 hours or 1 Aleve every 12 hours.

• Should you have any concerns or problems, please call our office.

Visit your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleaning. Ongoing care for tooth-colored fillings is the same as routine oral care for natural teeth.

• Brush at least twice a day.

• Floss at least once a day.

Many patients are rightfully concerned about mercury vapors and other health risks of amalgam (silver-mercury) fillings. Dr. Crooks will remove amalgam fillings and replace them with composite fillings that are metal-free, biofriendly, and extremely durable. She uses removal protocols in line with the recommendations of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT).

Replacing amalgam fillings with tooth-colored fillings offers several benefits, including:

• A more natural-looking appearance

• Removing dangerous mercury from your mouth

• Reduced teeth fractures

• Stronger tooth structure

• Lower risk of leakage around the filling

• Less painful maintenance

Direct restorations are for small dental fillings that can be completed in a single visit. Indirect restorations are for larger dental fillings, and because they replace more tooth structures, they require two appointments.

During your first indirect filling appointment, Dr. Crooks will shape your tooth, take impressions, and send them to a dental laboratory while you wear a temporary filling. The lab typically completes your permanent filling in 2 weeks.

For either type of dental filling, Dr. Crooks administers a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. She removes the decayed portion of your tooth, cleans the surrounding area, and then fills the cavity.

Dr. Monica Crooks will determine whether a tooth-colored filling or porcelain (ceramic) restoration is best for you during your initial consultation, call us at (916) 922-2027 or book online!

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