Who doesn’t love the idea of a quick, painless, robust, and long-lasting solution? Take dental fillings, for instance. With proper care, these routine restorations can ensure a healthy and confident smile for years to come!
Dental fillings are a common and effective way to treat cavities and restore the function of damaged teeth. For patients in Jonesboro, understanding the different types of fillings available, their benefits, and how to properly care for them can help ensure an informed decision and long-lasting oral health.
Types of Dental Fillings and Their Benefits
There are several types of dental fillings, each with unique benefits. The most common of these options are:
- Amalgam — Made from a mixture of metals, amalgam fillings are extremely durable. They’re often used for molars and other teeth that experience heavy chewing pressure.
- Composite (tooth-colored) — Tooth-colored fillings are made from a resin material that closely matches the color of natural teeth. Composite fillings bond well to the tooth structure, providing strength and a natural appearance. This makes them popular for prominently visible teeth.
- Ceramic — Like composite, ceramic fillings are also tooth-colored. However, the porcelain from which they’re made is strong, stain-resistant, and can last longer than composite fillings.
Properly Caring for Dental Fillings
Caring for dental fillings is essential to maximizing their lifespan and maintaining smile aesthetics and oral health. Fortunately, amalgam and tooth-colored fillings don’t require special care beyond good oral hygiene practices and some sound habits.
- Regular brushing and flossing—Tooth-colored fillings, especially composite ones, can stain when exposed to plaque. Brushing at least twice a day—for at least two minutes at a time, in a smooth circular motion—with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily help prevent plaque buildup.
- Regular dental checkups—Seeing your dentist regularly (every six months) helps ensure the longevity of your fillings by allowing your dentist to spot and repair damage and wear early on.
- Avoid overly hard or sticky foods — Chewing on hard objects (pens, pencils, ice, fingernails) or consuming sticky foods can cause fillings to crack or become loose over time. Tooth-colored fillings, while durable, may be more susceptible to wear.
Seamless Smile Restoration with Tooth-Colored Fillings in Jonesboro, AR
If you’re in Jonesboro and want to learn more about your dental filling options — including the transformative power of tooth-colored fillings — contact Dr. Anthony Bartels and the outstanding Anthony Bartels, DDS, team to schedule an appointment.