Dental fillings are one of the most common dental procedures used today. They are used to address tooth decay, damage and may even be part of a cosmetic treatment plan.
Traditionally, dental fillings were created using silver amalgam- a dark substance that would resist further decay and strengthen the tooth, but made the tooth and area around it appear gray. Over time, these fillings would begin to degrade and “leak” and many patients would experience new decay adjacent to the filling- and they would often fall out!
Columbia dentist Dr. Tom Trinkner places dental fillings and uses different types of biocompatible composites, depending on the dental health needs and cosmetic desires of the patient. In most situations, Dr. Trinkner recommends the use of resin or porcelain dental fillings which are custom matched with adjacent teeth to blend seamlessly with a patient’s natural smile. Also called “white” or cosmetic fillings, resin and porcelain dental fillings are durable, decay resistant and aesthetically pleasing.
Dr. Trinkner can replace old dark fillings with new, white cosmetic fillings for a fresh, new look. If you have old fillings that are noticeable or beginning to deteriorate, schedule an appointment with Dr. Trinkner and see what cosmetic fillings could do for your smile- and your dental health. Replacing old fillings can be beneficial for the long term integrity of the natural tooth- especially if the old filling has been in place for many years.
Cosmetic fillings in Columbia, SC
- Resin fillings: also known as tooth bonding, a resin filling is appropriate for minimal tooth decay and/or damage. Dr. Trinkner will sculpt the resin compound directly on to the surface of the tooth during a single visit.
- Porcelain fillings and restorations: dental inlays and dental onlays are porcelain dental fillings used to address deeper tooth decay or decay/damage on the edges of a tooth that may be compromising the integrity of the tooth. This type of restoration may require more than one visit to complete and will provide long lasting results with proper dental hygiene.