Metal fillings are a thing of the past.
At Legacy Dentistry in Midlothian, TX, we use tooth-colored composite resin for all fillings, ensuring your dental work is virtually invisible. Composite fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth while providing strong, durable protection against decay.
Whether you need a new filling or want to replace old metal fillings, tooth-colored restorations give you a healthier, more attractive smile.
Beautiful Materials That Match Your Teeth
One of the biggest advantages of composite fillings is how natural they look. We carefully match the filling material to the exact shade of your tooth, ensuring the restoration blends invisibly with your smile.
Unlike metal fillings that stand out when you laugh or speak, composite fillings are virtually undetectable. Most people won’t even know you’ve had dental work done.
The composite resin mimics the appearance of natural enamel, giving you results that look as good as they feel.
Mercury-Free & Biocompatible
Composite fillings are made from a mixture of plastic resin and fine glass particles. They contain no mercury or metal, making them a safer, more biocompatible choice for your oral health.
Many patients prefer mercury-free fillings for peace of mind. Composite resin is well-tolerated by the body and doesn’t expand or contract with temperature changes, the way metal fillings do.
By choosing tooth-colored fillings, you’re choosing a modern, health-conscious option that’s better for your teeth and your overall well-being.
Preserving More Of Your Natural Tooth
Composite fillings bond directly to your tooth structure, which means we only need to remove the decayed portion. Metal fillings, by contrast, require more tooth preparation to create the mechanical retention needed to hold them in place.
This conservative approach keeps your tooth stronger and healthier in the long run. The more natural tooth structure you keep, the better your tooth can withstand chewing forces and resist future problems.
Bonding also seals the tooth more effectively, reducing the risk of bacteria getting underneath the filling and causing new decay.
Replacing Old Metal Fillings
If you have old metal fillings that are worn, cracked, or simply unsightly, we can replace them with tooth-colored composite restorations. This not only improves the appearance of your smile but also removes fillings that may be compromising your tooth’s structure.
Metal fillings can expand and contract over time, creating cracks in your tooth that weaken it and increase the risk of fracture. Replacing them with composite gives you a fresh start with a more attractive, conservative restoration.
Comfortable, Gentle Placement
Getting a tooth-colored filling is quick and straightforward. We numb the area to keep you comfortable, remove the decay, and prepare the tooth. The composite resin is applied in layers, shaped to match your tooth’s natural contours, and hardened with a special curing light. The filling is then polished to a smooth, natural finish.
The entire process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. You can eat and drink normally as soon as the numbness wears off.
For anxious patients, we offer sedation options, including nitrous oxide, to help you relax during treatment.
Built To Last
With proper care, composite fillings can last seven to 10 years or longer. While they may not last quite as long as metal fillings, their aesthetic and conservative advantages make them the preferred choice for most patients.
The longevity of your filling depends on its size and location, your oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle factors like grinding or clenching. We’ll monitor your fillings during routine checkups and let you know if any need repair or replacement.
Composite fillings are strong enough to withstand normal chewing forces and provide reliable protection for your tooth.
Caring For Your Fillings
Composite fillings require the same care as your natural teeth.
To keep your fillings in great shape:
- Brush twice a day and floss daily
- Avoid chewing ice or hard candy
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Visit us regularly for checkups and cleanings
- Limit staining foods and drinks that can discolor the filling over time
It’s normal to experience some sensitivity to temperature or pressure for a few days after getting a filling. This usually resolves on its own. If sensitivity persists or worsens, contact us so we can check the filling and make any necessary adjustments.
Beautiful, Functional Restorations
At Legacy Dentistry, tooth-colored fillings provide the perfect combination of aesthetics and function. We use high-quality materials and precise techniques to deliver fillings that look natural, feel comfortable, and protect your teeth for years to come.
Call our Midlothian, TX office or book online to schedule your appointment. Whether you need a new filling or want to replace old metal restorations, we’re here to provide the care you deserve.