Tooth-Colored Fillings in Longview, WA
Restore Your Smile with Natural-Looking Tooth-Colored Fillings
At Advanced Dental Services in Longview, WA, we believe that restoring your dental health shouldn't come at the expense of your smile's appearance. That's why Dr. Chad L. Kleven, DDS, and our skilled team offer tooth-colored fillings as a durable, aesthetically pleasing solution for treating cavities and repairing minor tooth damage. These modern fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring that your smile remains beautiful and healthy.
What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are made from a blend of resin and finely ground glass particles. Unlike traditional metal (amalgam) fillings, which can be highly visible, tooth-colored fillings are designed to match the shade of your natural teeth. This allows for a more discreet restoration that not only repairs your tooth but also maintains the aesthetics of your smile.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Fillings
- Natural Appearance: The composite material is closely matched to the color of your natural teeth, making the filling virtually invisible.
- Strong and Durable: Tooth-colored fillings bond directly to your tooth, providing added strength and support, especially in cases where the tooth has suffered minor fractures or wear.
- Preservation of Tooth Structure: Less tooth structure needs to be removed compared to traditional metal fillings, preserving more of your natural tooth.
- Mercury-Free: Unlike amalgam fillings, tooth-colored fillings are free from mercury, providing a safer and more environmentally friendly option.
When Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Needed?
Tooth-colored fillings are used to treat:
- Cavities: Fillings are the most common treatment for cavities, where the decayed portion of the tooth is removed and replaced with the filling material.
- Cracked or Chipped Teeth: Minor cracks or chips can be effectively repaired with composite fillings.
- Worn Teeth: Teeth that have been worn down from habits like grinding (bruxism) can be restored with tooth-colored fillings.
- Replacing Old Fillings: If you have old metal fillings, they can be replaced with tooth-colored fillings for a more natural appearance.
The Tooth-Colored Filling Procedure
Getting a tooth-colored filling at Advanced Dental Services is a straightforward and comfortable process, often completed in just one visit.
1. Examination and Diagnosis
Dr. Kleven begins by carefully examining your teeth and identifying any areas of decay or damage. Digital X-rays may be used to get a complete picture of your oral health.
2. Removing the Decay
Once the affected area is identified, the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is gently removed. This is done with precision to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
3. Placing the Filling
After the decay is removed, the tooth is cleaned and prepped for the filling. The composite material is then applied in layers, with each layer being cured (hardened) using a special light. This ensures a strong bond and a natural-looking finish.
4. Shaping and Polishing
Once the filling is in place, it is shaped and polished to match the contours of your natural tooth, ensuring a comfortable bite and a smooth, aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Why Choose Advanced Dental Services for Tooth-Colored Fillings?
At Advanced Dental Services, we are committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. Dr. Kleven’s expertise in restorative dentistry ensures that your tooth-colored fillings are placed with precision and care, resulting in a long-lasting, natural-looking restoration. Our team uses the latest dental technology to ensure that your treatment is comfortable, efficient, and tailored to your specific needs.
For more extensive restorations, you may also be interested in our services for dental crowns and bridges or full mouth reconstruction.
Schedule Your Appointment for Tooth-Colored Fillings
If you're in Longview, WA, or the surrounding areas like Kelso, Castle Rock, or Rainier, and need a cavity treated or an old filling replaced, contact Advanced Dental Services today. We’re here to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Call us at (360) 425-4900 or visit our Contact Us page to schedule your appointment.