Why patients choose tooth-colored fillings to treat cavities  

For decades, the go-to dental material for a filling was a mixture of materials that made up “silver amalgam.” These fillings were very dark in color and very easy to see. There have also been concerns about the effectiveness of silver amalgam fillings and their safety due to the mercury that they contain.. White fillings are now a popular choice for dental restoration. Dr. Trish Barsanti of Arcata, California, is a restorative and cosmetic dentist in the community who can help patients learn more about tooth-colored fillings and when they are appropriate to enhance the smile. 

What are tooth-colored fillings?

Tooth-colored fillings are made from a porcelain-based resin that can be molded and shaded to match your natural tooth. Not only do they look better than fillings made of silver amalgam, but they are also much more durable. In fact, they can actually create a better seal with your tooth than silver fillings, which will help prevent future decay and reduce the risk of infection later on. 

How are tooth-colored fillings used? 

Tooth-colored fillings are used when patients have been diagnosed with tooth decay. The area of decay is removed during a dental visit, and the inner areas are cleaned and disinfected. Then, the composite resin material is administered into the hole left behind from the cavity and made to seal off the tooth. If the tooth has an extensive cavity, patients may need to have a dental crown put over the tooth to strengthen the tooth and protect it from further damage down the road. 

What are the advantages of tooth-colored fillings? 

Many patients choose composite resin because it is:

• Performed in a single appointment
• Blended into the smile
• Affordable and often covered by dental insurance
• Long-lasting and durable
• Allow more conservative tooth preparation than for amalgam fillings
• Safer than silver amalgam, which contains toxic mercury 

How do I learn more about tooth-colored dental fillings? Dr. Trish Barsanti of Barsanti Dental Group is here to help patients in and around the community of Arcata, CA, with their dental needs. If you are considering tooth-colored fillings for one or more cavities in your smile, call (707) 388-3880 to request an appointment with our team. We are open to new and returning patients and families and are conveniently located at 1180 8th Street.