Dental Fillings

Cavities can develop for a number of reasons. Genetics, poor dental hygiene practices, and even some diseases can cause this common dental condition. Tooth decay begins with little holes that slowly develop into larger holes. Left untreated, cavities can eventually affect other teeth or tissue. Dental fillings are used to treat cavities by filling in the hole to protect the tooth from further damage.

Types of Fillings

When discussing filling options with your dentist, three key factors are taken into consideration: functionality, looks and durability.

Ceramic and composite fillings have four great benefits:

• Natural appearance — Thanks to the materials’ coloring process, a repaired tooth will usually blend in very well with the surrounding healthy teeth, whether you choose ceramic or composite. You can smile confidently knowing your fillings are not noticeable.
• Durability — Composite and ceramic fillings tend to last a very long time. The average lifespan of these materials is 5–10 years for composites, and up to 20 years for ceramic.
• Safety — Another big advantage for both patient and doctor is that the process of applying composite or ceramic fillings is non-toxic. These are safe materials with a very low risk of allergies.
• Resistant to abrasion and stains — Ceramic and composite fillings are made of flexible but strong materials, and that makes them less likely to get fissures that lead to further decay. Additionally, with consistent dental hygiene, you can keep a stain-free smile for a long time.

At Brown and Kupper, DDS, we are happy to discuss options for dental fillings with patients in West Chester, OH and the surrounding area. Your dentist will be able to guide you to the best option to restore and improve your smile. You’ll feel confident that you’ve made the right choice with Brown and Kupper, DDS.