Dental fillings are a general dental solution that treats teeth affected by trauma, wear, tooth decay, or other damage. A dental filling will restore strength and beauty to the tooth and protect the tooth from future damage. Dr. Karl Neuhaus uses metal-free dental fillings in his Amherst, NY, dental office to achieve natural-looking, long-lasting results. We can also replace old, dark fillings for an instant smile makeover.
What is a “white filling”?
White fillings are tooth-colored dental fillings. They are made from composite resin or porcelain color-matched to your smile. This material creates a tight and secure seal to offer superior protection against future decay when placed. Additionally, white fillings are virtually undetectable and provide long-lasting strength and durability.
Resin Dental Fillings
Resin dental fillings are made from a biocompatible composite resin applied directly to the tooth. Treatment with resin dental fillings is also called composite bonding. Generally, our dentists use resin dental fillings and composite bonding for patients with minor tooth decay or damage.
Resin dental fillings are long-lasting but not permanent. They are part of a conservative treatment plan to protect the tooth from future damage. Routine dental visits enable us to check on the integrity of your filling over time. At these visits, we will also make any necessary repairs or adjustments to avoid further tooth damage.
Porcelain Dental Fillings
Porcelain dental fillings may also be called inlays, onlays, or partial crowns. Ideal for patients with more significant damage or decay, porcelain dental fillings add additional strength to the tooth. With proper care and maintenance, porcelain fillings may last up to 30 years.
Inlay vs. Onlay
- An inlay covers one cusp (or bump) of the surface of the tooth
- An onlay, sometimes called a partial crown, is more extensive, covering two or more cusps
Replacing Metal Dental Fillings in Amherst, NY
Modern advances in cosmetic dentistry mean that you no longer need to suffer from unsightly and uncomfortable silver/mercury fillings. Instead, our dentists can replace old, broken-down amalgam (metal) fillings with white fillings for a more comfortable and natural-looking restoration.
In many cases, we will recommend porcelain dental filling to replace your old filling, especially if located in a larger tooth. If the old filling was large and removing it will compromise the tooth, Dr. Neuhaus may recommend a dental crown to add additional strength.
We can complete the dental filling procedure during a single visit unless the filling is an inlay or onlay. For your comfort, we apply a local anesthetic to numb the area to be treated. Then, we will clean any areas of decay and then fill them with the custom color-matched composite resin. We will smooth the material and adjust it for a comfortable and natural bite.
The final step is to seal the filling by curing it with a special light. We polish the surface is polished and your new filling is ready to support your long-term dental health.
What To Do If You Have A Broken or Missing Dental Filling
If you have a missing or broken dental filling, it is important to contact our office as quickly as possible. An emergency dentist in Amherst, Dr. Neuhaus sets aside time in our schedule to treat patients who are experiencing a sudden dental emergency such as broken crowns or lost fillings. Contact us immediately to evaluate your concern and to schedule emergency treatment if necessary.
Schedule an Appointment
Want to find a dentist in Amherst, NY, or the surrounding areas of Tonawanda and Wheatfield? Creekside Dentistry may be the perfect fit for you or your family’s needs. Whether you need a local dentist for general dentistry and routine care or a highly trained specialist to treat your complex dental problems, Dr. Neuhaus can help.
Call us at (716) 262-8070 or request an appointment online.