John Leitner DDS 575 Robbins Road, Grand Haven, MI 49417

(616) 842-2850

Tooth-Colored Fillings

The Modern and Natural Solution for a Beautiful Smile

When it comes to oral health, dental fillings play a crucial role in restoring damaged teeth. Traditionally, metal amalgam fillings were the go-to option, but nowadays, tooth-colored fillings are becoming increasingly popular. Our Grand Haven, MI dentist, Dr. John Leitner is proud to offer tooth-colored fillings that provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing look. 

What Are Tooth-Colored Fillings?

Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are made of a mixture of resin and glass particles. They’re designed to match the natural color of your teeth, making them a popular choice for cosmetic dental work. Unlike metal amalgam fillings, tooth-colored fillings are virtually invisible, giving you a more natural-looking smile.

woman smiling
dental fillings

Tooth-Colored Fillings Process

  • Numbing: Dr. Leitner will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic.
  • Cleaning: Your Grand Haven dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and clean the area.
  • Preparation: He will prepare the tooth for the filling by etching it with an acidic gel, which allows the filling to bond better.
  • Filling: He will then apply the composite resin to the tooth in layers, using a special light to harden each layer.
  • Polishing: Once the filling is complete, the dentist will polish the tooth to give it a smooth, natural-looking finish.

The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings offer several benefits, including:

  • Aesthetics: Tooth-colored fillings blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a more natural look than metal fillings.
  • Bonding: Tooth-colored fillings bond more effectively to your teeth, making them a more durable option.
  • Preservation: Tooth-colored fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure, preserving your natural teeth.
  • Sensitivity: Tooth-colored fillings are less sensitive to hot and cold temperatures than metal fillings.
dentist working on the mouth of a patient

Frequently Asked Questions

The lifespan of tooth-colored fillings can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and location of the filling, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and the amount of pressure placed on the tooth during normal use. However, on average, tooth-colored fillings can last between 5 and 15 years, and with proper care and maintenance, they can last even longer.

Yes, you can eat and drink normally after getting a tooth-colored filling. However, it is recommended to wait until the anesthesia wears off completely before eating or drinking anything to avoid accidentally biting your cheek, tongue, or lips.

Tooth-colored fillings are made of a composite resin material that is strong and durable. While they may not be quite as strong as metal fillings, they are still an effective and long-lasting option for repairing teeth.

Most dental insurance plans cover tooth-colored fillings, although the amount of coverage may vary depending on the plan. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider before undergoing any dental procedure.

Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Leitner

Tooth-colored fillings offer several advantages over traditional metal fillings. They provide a more natural-looking appearance, are less invasive, and can last for many years with proper care. If you’re interested in learning more about tooth-colored fillings or need to schedule a filling procedure, be sure to contact your Grand Haven, MI dentist. Dr. Leitner has the knowledge and technology to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that you can be proud of. So, don’t hesitate to schedule your appointment by giving us a call at (616) 842-2850 or fill out our online form to take the first step towards a brighter, healthier smile!