The Benefits of White Dental Fillings

When you think of a dental filling, what image comes to your mind? If it is a silver spot in the midst of a white tooth, you may be excited to learn that many dentists, including your Reno dentists, Dr. William Wager and Dr. Brian Evans, are leaving silver (amalgam) fillings behind in favor of white dental fillings made out of a material called composite resin. Durable and tooth-colored, composite resin is also used in a treatment called cosmetic bonding, which can repair and resurface teeth. The material, therefore, is very durable and produces excellent cosmetic results. In fact, composite resin can be tinted to match the exact shade of the tooth or teeth to which it is being applied, meaning your dental filling will not detract from your smile.

In addition to the improvements they produce in cosmetic results, white dental fillings require the removal of less of the tooth’s structure than do amalgam fillings. They also make a great option for people with mercury sensitivities as they contain no mercury whatsoever (unlike amalgam fillings). Lastly, composite resin fillings are not made of metal and thus do not carry the same risk for cracking and leaking as they age.

The Importance of Dental Fillings

If a cavity develops in one of your teeth, it is absolutely imperative that you receive a dental filling. Untreated tooth decay can quickly progress until the tooth is in an even more perilous state. Bacteria that reach the tooth’s pulp can cause an infection that puts the entire tooth in danger. Quick intervention with root canal treatment may be able to preserve a tooth in this condition. However, if the infection is not removed by root canal therapy, it may spread to other areas of the mouth, and the condition of the tooth may deteriorate to the point that an extraction becomes necessary.

Receiving Your White Dental Filling

Receiving a white dental filling is a relatively simple process. First, Dr. Wager or Dr. Evans will clean your tooth and remove any decayed material. He will then tint the composite resin to match your tooth so that your restoration blends in naturally. Next, he will place the filling, allowing it to harden so that it becomes durable. Finally, Dr. Wager or Dr. Evans will polish your tooth to complete the restoration.

About Wager Evans Dental: Dr. William Wager and Dr. Brian Evans of Wager Evans Dental offer general, cosmetic, and restorative dental services to patients in the Reno NV area. Patients can contact them by calling 775-829-7700 to schedule an appointment or a consultation.