Dental fillings are one of the basic restoration procedures that a dentist undertakes. It repairs cavities and restores the structural integrity of damaged teeth. But as the repair work is conspicuous, it is aesthetically unappealing. This is where the services of cosmetic dentistry Los Angeles clinics come in handy. Dentists who specialize in cosmetic dentistry perform the restorative procedure with cosmetic fillings, thereby passing on a dual benefit of improved structural strength with a perfect smile. Let's understand the concepts of cosmetic fillings:
What Are Cosmetic Fillings?
Amalgam, a mixture of metals like gold, silver, tin, zinc, and copper, are commonly used for dental fillings. While they have noted durability and can last up to 15 years, these restorations are not visually appealing. They give a metallic look to the dental crown and therefore spoil the smileline. On the other hand, cosmetic fillings are made of materials that closely resemble the natural color and texture of the teeth. They are, thus, the ideal choice for repairing damaged teeth and keeping their visual appeal intact.
Types Of Cosmetic Fillings
At the leading Los Angeles cosmetic dentist clinics, patients get the option to choose between different materials. These include:
Composite Fillings - Composite dental fillings are a popular choice. They are a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles that match the natural shade of the tooth, providing excellent aesthetic results. They are durable and can last up to 5 - 7 years with proper care.
Porcelain Fillings - The best cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles uses porcelain fillings for inlays or onlays. They are durable and can withstand the forces of biting and chewing. They have an effective lifespan of up to 15 years. These fillings are stain-resistant and are a perfect fit for larger cavities and replacement of old and worn-out fillings.
Glass Ionomer Fillings - Glass ionomer fillings offer a combination of glass and acrylic materials. They are a common choice to fill up small cavities or for use in areas where bite pressure is low like the front teeth. The filling is also recommended for its protective benefits. They release fluoride which helps to strengthen adjacent teeth and fight tooth decay.
Cosmetic Filling Procedure
A cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles is best equipped to handle dental filling procedures. The process involves the following steps:
Examination - This is the phase of initial assessment when the cosmetic dentist will examine the affected tooth. Physical examination and X-ray imaging are used to assess the extent of damage and determine the most appropriate cosmetic filling type.
Preparation - The decayed and damaged portion of the tooth has to be removed. For this, the dentist will use numbing cream or local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. With the help of a dental drill, the infected part is removed until the clean and healthy tooth structure becomes visible.
Dental Filling -The cosmetic filling material is filled into the prepared tooth structure. The material is hardened using the special curing light, This bonds the filling securely to the tooth. Final adjustments are done to ensure a proper fit and bite alignment. If required, the crown is polished to smooth out the rough edges.
Final Thoughts
Dental fillings are used to enhance dental strength in case of tooth decay. Cosmetic dental fillings go a step further and add finesse and grace to the teeth. If you are considering dental fillings to treat tooth decay and cavities, cosmetic dental fillings make the obvious choice. With leading cosmetic dentistry clinics like Personal Dental Office in Los Angeles offering an entire spectrum of cosmetic dentistry services, book an appointment to discuss your case and choose the best treatment option to correct the damage while maintaining your smile line.
