Stop Hiding Your Fillings: The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Restorations

Nearly 100 million Americans have metal amalgam fillings. These restorations were the gold standard, so to speak, for repairing cavities for over 100 years, but many patients don’t like their metallic sheen. Because metal fillings stand out, some people even avoid smiling, laughing, or speaking in public.

At her San Jose, California, practice, experienced dentist Irma Francisco, DDS, helps patients restore confidence in their smiles. She offers tooth-colored restorations that combine natural appearance with lasting function. Keep reading to learn what these restorations are, their aesthetic and functional benefits, and when to consider them.

What are tooth-colored restorations?

Tooth-colored restorations repair or replace damaged or missing teeth. Many traditional restorations, which are often silver and made of metal amalgam, stand out when you smile or speak. Tooth-colored restorations, on the other hand, are made of composite resin or ceramic and match your natural tooth color.

Dr. Francisco offers several types of tooth-colored restorations, including:

These restorations can easily fit in with your existing teeth, restoring your smile’s natural appearance. The materials are safe and durable, and, with proper care, most last five to seven years, sometimes longer.

Aesthetic benefits of tooth-colored restorations

The most obvious benefit of tooth-colored restorations is that they blend in naturally with your smile. Because they match the natural shade of your teeth, no one can tell if you’ve had extractions, cavities, or other dental work. This alone gives many patients the boost they need to speak, smile, and laugh confidently.

Functional benefits of tooth-colored restorations

Dental issues, such as cavities, missing teeth, and severe tooth damage, can lead to more serious problems if they aren’t treated promptly. But because many patients feel self-conscious or experience dental anxiety, they often delay treatment, making problems even more likely.

Tooth-colored restorations make it easy to replace entire teeth or restore damaged or decaying parts of teeth. This makes biting and chewing easier, prevents further damage, and lowers the risks of gum disease, gum recession, and bone loss.

Long-term health benefits

Metal fillings are considered safe, but for pregnant people or those with kidney or neurological issues, they may present potential risks because they contain trace amounts of mercury.

Since tooth-colored restorations are made from materials such as composite resin and porcelain, they’re acceptable for all patients, regardless of health history. For patients with health considerations, these restorations offer a safe and durable solution without compromising well-being.

Request a consultation to learn more about tooth-colored restorations

If you’re interested in replacing metal fillings or other outdated dental restorations with tooth-colored ones, we can help. To request a consultation, contact us today by calling the office or booking an appointment online.