When a tooth experiences enough decay, small holes can develop that can be corrected with dental fillings. Dental fillings can also be used following physical trauma to fill in the fractures or cracks that may have resulted in order to prevent an infection from developing and spreading and avoid decay. If the damage or decay is significant, a dental crown may be necessary instead to protect the tooth and preserve your oral health.

Although there are several different material types of fillings, our Greenville South Carolina dentist encourages our dentistry patients to use composite fillings, as they provide the same level of support as traditional fillings but provide a much more natural look.  Additional benefits of composite fillings include:

• Strengthens your tooth: Along with creating a tight bond with your tooth which will strengthen your enamel, tooth-colored fillings also require less removal of your natural enamel compared to traditional metal fillings.
• Restores your smile: Tooth-colored fillings will help prevent further damage to your tooth while letting you preserve your natural smile.
• Reduces risk of developing other issues: If a cavity is left untreated, the tooth can decay even further, which may necessitate the need for a tooth extraction or root canal. Cavities also increase your risk of developing infections, like gum disease.
• Stability: Metal fillings can contract and expand over time, which can cause your teeth to weak, whereas composite fillings do not.
• Natural look: Unlike traditional metal fillings, which are very noticeable when smiling, tooth-colored fillings provide the same level of support while matching the natural color of your teeth.
• Minimally invasive procedure: Dental fillings can be placed in one visit and cause minimal discomfort.