Silver amalgam fillings used to “fill” the areas where cavities caused tooth decay. Dentists once believed these unattractive, bulky fillings helped prevent further damage to the impaired tooth. Dentists now can provide patients with white dental composite or porcelain restorations. Bonded directly to your teeth, these fillings provide protection that the silver amalgam fillings cannot provide. Your Columbia dentist, Dr. David Foster, educate his patients on the importance of choosing white fillings to create a healthy, beautiful smile.
We’ve Had Our Fill with Silver Amalgam
Silver amalgam fillings have withstood the test of time. Dentists have used the mercury, silver, tin and copper-based restorations for the past 150 years, citing the durability of the fillings as one of the main reasons for continued use. The fillings are relatively inexpensive. You may wonder, “why the shift to white fillings?” The aesthetic of white fillings is just one reason many people choose them, but they have other benefits as well.
Dr. Foster bonds the white filling to your tooth layer by layer. A special light hardens each layer as he works. Once he finishes filling your tooth, he will shape up the filling to create a seamless, natural look. The great thing about these fillings is Dr. Foster only removes the affected area of the tooth. With silver fillings, dentists remove some portions of the healthy tooth area to ensure the filling stays in place.
The amalgam fillings absorb moisture which causes them to expand and contract. Over time, your tooth may fracture causing you to visit our office for a new crown to protect the crack. With white fillings, none of these situations occur. In fact, your tooth is stronger because of the white filling.
Caring for Your White Filling
You may notice increased sensitivity to hot and cold after Dr. Foster connects the filling to your tooth. You may also experience some pain and swelling. Try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to alleviate some of the pain.
Unlike some dental procedures, the recovery time is relatively short. You can resume your normal eating habits as soon as you leave our chair. Make sure that your practice proper at-home oral hygiene. Remember to brush and floss twice daily. Just like your normal teeth, coffee, tea and other foods and beverages can stain your fillings.
Come see Dr. Foster ‘White’ Away!
Dr. Foster can answer any and all questions or concerns regarding white fillings. Call our Columbia office at 931-388-3384 to schedule your appointment. We proudly serve patients in Lewisburg, Lewisburg, Hohenwald, and Centerville.