When a tooth has been damaged by decay, an old filling, or loss of tooth structure, restoring it is important for both the health and function of your smile. Today, patients have restorative options that can repair damaged teeth while also creating a natural-looking result.
At Raleigh Prosthodontics, tooth-colored restorations can be used to replace older fillings and restore teeth that have lost a significant amount of their natural structure. These restorations are designed to blend with the surrounding teeth while providing strength and protection.
What Are Tooth-Colored Restorations?
Tooth-colored restorations are made from materials designed to closely match the appearance of natural teeth. Unlike traditional metal-colored fillings, these restorations can be carefully designed to blend with your existing smile.
For patients with older fillings or weakened teeth, a tooth-colored restoration may provide both aesthetic and functional benefits. Depending on the condition of the tooth, a prosthodontist may recommend a resin onlay or porcelain restoration to restore the tooth while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Replacing Older Fillings
Over time, older fillings may need to be replaced because of recurrent decay, deterioration, or changes in the surrounding tooth structure. In some cases, simply replacing an old filling with another filling may not provide the level of protection the tooth needs.
A tooth-colored onlay can be an option when a significant amount of tooth structure has been lost but enough healthy tooth remains to preserve the tooth.
At Raleigh Prosthodontics, the old filling is removed along with any additional decay. The tooth is then prepared for the new restoration, which is designed specifically for the shape and needs of the individual tooth.
The Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations
There are several advantages to restoring a damaged tooth with a tooth-colored restoration.
A Natural Appearance
One of the most noticeable benefits is the ability to create a restoration that blends with the surrounding teeth. The restoration is carefully designed to look natural and complement your smile.
A Stronger Tooth
Tooth-colored restorations can do more than improve the appearance of a tooth. Resin onlays are bonded to the tooth, creating a close fit and helping strengthen a tooth that has lost a significant amount of its natural structure.
Rather than removing additional healthy tooth structure unnecessarily, the goal is to preserve the remaining tooth while providing the support it needs.
Protection for the Tooth
A weakened tooth may be more vulnerable to additional damage. Restoring the tooth with a properly fitted restoration can help protect the remaining tooth structure while restoring its natural appearance and function.
Tooth-Colored Restorations and Your Smile
Modern restorative dentistry allows patients to address damaged or weakened teeth without sacrificing the appearance of their smile. Tooth-colored restorations can provide an attractive alternative to older fillings while helping preserve and strengthen the remaining tooth structure.
Every tooth and every patient is different. A prosthodontist can evaluate the condition of your teeth and determine which type of restoration is appropriate for your specific needs.
At Raleigh Prosthodontics, our doctors combine advanced restorative techniques with an understanding of both the function and aesthetics of your smile. If you have older fillings, damaged teeth, or concerns about the appearance or strength of an existing restoration, contact Raleigh Prosthodontics to learn more about your restorative options.
Raleigh Prosthodontics provides restorative and prosthodontic dentistry for patients in Raleigh and surrounding communities, including Cary, Durham, Chapel Hill, Wake Forest, Garner, and Apex.
