Tooth coloured restorations fall into two categories of dentistry, restorative and cosmetic. Restorative dentistry means that it is a procedure designed to repair or restore damaged teeth. Cosmetic dentistry involves typically elective procedures that improve the appearance of your teeth.
In short a tooth coloured restoration is a composite filling that that is the same colour as your teeth rather than a metal amalgam filling. The cosmetic benefit of a tooth coloured restoration is clear as they are much more aesthetically pleasing than metal. Many people chose to have amalgam fillings replaced with composite fillings for this reason. They can be matched to the colour of your teeth so they remain unnoticeable.
The composite fillings used in tooth coloured restorations are a mixture of acrylic resin and powdered silica particles. This makes them the most sophisticated type of filling material used in dentistry. As it's such a strong material, it provides the durability that’s needed to withstand the wear and tear of chewing. There is also the added benefit that they don't contain mercury which is found in amalgam restorations. Some organisations have raised concerns about this. Their many benefits over amalgam fillings is why we use them here at Motcomb Street Dentist when performing new restorations. But it also means it is sometimes necessary to replace amalgam fillings for restorative reasons too.
Aside from the obvious difference in colour a main benefit of a tooth coloured restoration is that it will bond to the tooth tissue (enamel and dentine) therefore helping to restore the strength and integrity of the tooth. Whereas amalgam fillings may corrode over time opening up avenues for possible decay to form underneath leading to them needing to be replaced. The new composite restoration can then be repaired and refurbished in such a way as to limit the frequency of replacement.
Contact us at Motcomb Street Dentist to find out more about the services we offer, including tooth coloured restorations.
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