Tooth-Colored Fillings in Flower Mound, TX
Dr. Joshua Prentice provides tooth-colored fillings in Flower Mound, TX, using mercury-free composite resin that blends seamlessly with natural teeth. Serving Flower Mound, Lantana, Highland Village, and Lewisville with discreet cavity repair. Call (972) 539-6831 to schedule your appointment.
Need cavities repaired discreetly? Get composite resin fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth—durable, beautiful, and mercury-free.
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite resin fillings, are made from a blend of plastic and glass materials that can be precisely matched to the shade of your natural teeth. Unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings are virtually invisible and provide a more aesthetic solution for treating cavities. For larger restorations or extensively damaged teeth, same-day crowns may be recommended for optimal strength and durability.
These modern fillings not only look better but also bond directly to the tooth structure, providing additional support and requiring less removal of healthy tooth material compared to amalgam fillings. For comprehensive smile makeovers, explore our cosmetic dentistry services.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
✨ Natural Appearance
Matched precisely to your tooth color, composite fillings blend seamlessly so no one can tell you have had dental work done.
🚫 Mercury-Free
Composite resin contains no mercury or metal, making them a safer, biocompatible choice for your health.
💪 Strong Bond
Composite material chemically bonds to tooth structure, providing extra support and helping to prevent fractures.
🦷 Preserves Tooth Structure
Less healthy tooth needs to be removed compared to amalgam fillings, allowing you to keep more of your natural tooth.
🌡️ Less Sensitivity
Unlike metal fillings, composite doesn't expand and contract with temperature changes, reducing post-treatment sensitivity.
⚡ Versatile Applications
Can be used for cavities, chipped teeth, worn teeth, and even cosmetic improvements to tooth shape and color.
The Filling Procedure
Numbing & Preparation
The area is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Dr. Prentice then carefully removes the decayed portion of the tooth.
Cleaning & Etching
The tooth is thoroughly cleaned and an etching solution is applied to create a rough surface for optimal bonding.
Shade Matching
A composite resin shade is carefully selected to precisely match your natural tooth color for seamless results.
Layering & Bonding
The composite resin is applied in thin layers, with each layer being hardened using a special curing light before the next is applied.
Shaping & Polishing
Once the filling is complete, Dr. Prentice shapes and polishes it to ensure a comfortable bite and natural appearance.
Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings
| Feature | Tooth-Colored (Composite) | Silver (Amalgam) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Natural, invisible | Dark, highly visible |
| Mercury Content | None (mercury-free) | Contains mercury |
| Tooth Structure | Preserves more tooth | Requires more removal |
| Bonding | Bonds chemically | Mechanical retention |
| Temperature Sensitivity | Minimal expansion | Expands/contracts |
| Durability | 5-10 years average | 10-15 years average |
Caring for Your Composite Fillings
Do:
- ✓Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- ✓Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- ✓Visit for regular dental checkups and cleanings
- ✓Maintain a balanced diet low in sugary foods
Avoid:
- ✗Chewing on hard objects like ice or pens
- ✗Using your teeth as tools to open packages
- ✗Grinding or clenching teeth (wear a guard if needed)
- ✗Excessive consumption of staining beverages
Common Questions
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
With proper care, composite fillings typically last 5-10 years or longer. Their lifespan depends on factors like the size of the filling, location in the mouth, and your oral hygiene habits.
Are composite fillings as strong as amalgam?
Modern composite materials are very durable and suitable for most cavity repairs. While amalgam may be slightly more durable in high-pressure areas, composite fillings bond directly to teeth, providing structural support that amalgam cannot.
Will my insurance cover tooth-colored fillings?
Most dental insurance plans cover composite fillings on front teeth. For back teeth, some plans may only cover the cost equivalent to an amalgam filling, with the patient paying the difference. We can help verify your coverage.
Can old silver fillings be replaced with tooth-colored ones?
Yes! Many patients choose to replace old, worn amalgam fillings with composite fillings for improved aesthetics and to eliminate mercury concerns. Dr. Prentice can evaluate your existing fillings during your consultation.