Tooth-Colored Filling in Lithia, FL
Why Would You Need a Tooth-Colored Filling?
Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite resin fillings, are used to restore teeth affected by decay, cracks, or minor fractures. Cavities form when plaque and bacteria erode tooth enamel, leading to decay and potential pain or sensitivity (Fejerskov et al., 2008). Tooth-colored fillings offer a durable and aesthetic solution, blending seamlessly with natural teeth while preserving more of the healthy tooth structure compared to traditional metal fillings (Lynch et al., 2019).
The Tooth-Colored Filling Process in Lithia, FL
The procedure for placing a tooth-colored filling is quick and minimally invasive. It typically involves the following steps:
- Removing Decay – Your Lithia dentist carefully removes the decayed portion of the tooth using a dental drill or laser.
- Etching and Bonding – The tooth surface is etched and conditioned to allow for a strong bond between the composite material and the tooth.
- Filling Placement – A tooth-colored composite resin is applied in layers and hardened with a special curing light.
- Shaping and Polishing – The filling is sculpted and polished to match the natural contours of the tooth, ensuring a comfortable bite and smooth finish.
This quick and effective procedure typically takes less than an hour, allowing patients to restore their tooth function and appearance in a single visit (Peumans et al., 2010).
Our Team
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Dr. Joseph Wareham DMD
Dr. Joseph Wareham is the proud owner and dentist at Cherry Blossom Family Dentistry, a practice he founded and opened in 2013. With a deep passion for dentistry, Dr. Wareham has been practicing since graduating from Nova Southeastern University in 2007.
Dr. Wareham's favorite part of working in dentistry is the close-knit relationship he shares with his team members. He believes in fostering a fun and lighthearted work environment, where jokes and laughter are shared between colleagues and patients alike. This sense of camaraderie creates a comfortable and enjoyable experience for ...
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What Happens if Cavities Are Left Untreated?
Ignoring cavities can lead to severe dental complications. Without treatment, tooth decay can:
- Progress deeper into the tooth, reaching the pulp/nerve, causing pain, infection, and the need for root canal therapy (Ricketts et al., 2013).
- Weaken the tooth structure, leading to fractures or complete tooth loss.
- Allow bacteria to spread, increasing the risk of gum disease and systemic infections (Han & Wang, 2013).
Getting a tooth-colored filling at the earliest stage of decay helps prevent more invasive and costly treatments while maintaining a healthy, natural-looking smile.
Schedule Your Appointment in Lithia, FL, Today
If you have tooth sensitivity, pain, or visible cavities, Cherry Blossom Family Dentistry in Lithia, FL, can restore your smile with natural-looking, durable tooth-colored fillings. Call (813) 438-5925 or schedule an appointment online today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Unlike amalgam fillings, tooth-colored fillings are a custom-mixed resin composite. The composite mixture is matched to your tooth color and bonded directly to the tooth. This usually results in a filling that is nearly indistinguishable from your natural tooth.
We are able to achieve a "seamless" look by:
- Custom Color Matching
- Layering Technique
- Chemical Bonding
- Sculpting & Polishing
Beyond their natural appearance, tooth-colored fillings offer several functional advantages. They are entirely metal-free and require less removal of your natural tooth structure than traditional options. Additionally, because the resin is more temperature-stable than metal, it won't expand or contract with hot and cold, which helps protect your tooth from future cracks.
Restore Your Smile Invisibly
Is a cavity or an old, dark filling affecting your confidence? Our tooth-colored restorations can repair your teeth while keeping your smile looking completely natural. Schedule your visit online today!
Tooth-Colored Fillings Technology
Digital X-Rays
Modern digital dental x-rays benefit patients in a number of ways:
- Digital x-rays expose patients to considerably less radiation than conventional film x-rays.
- Digital x-rays require almost no time for development, reducing time spent waiting in the dental chair.
- Digital x-rays allow for incredibly precise and accurate images for timely diagnoses.
- Digital x-rays are securely stored in your digital file and can be securely sent to your insurance company or specialists, when necessary.
Because no chemicals are needed for developing and no space is needed for film storage, digital x-rays are better for the environment.