Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged from cavities. The filling helps protect the tooth from becoming more injured, which may result in tooth loss. There are different types of fillings, with the most common being traditional metal fillings and tooth-colored fillings. The tooth-colored is an option that will blend with your natural tooth color and is being used to replace older metal fillings.  Dr. Ricardo Kimbers has put together a brief guide to help you understand your options for fillings in Baltimore, MD.

Metal Fillings

For many years, the only option for dental fillings was a silver amalgam. Although the name implies this type of filling is made from mostly silver, it is actually made up of varying amounts of copper, tin, and silver as well as 50% mercury. The amount of mercury used is the primary reason these fillings are being replaced with options made from composite materials. The metal also contracts and expands with temperature changes, so the foods you eat may change the shape of a silver filling, eventually weakening the tooth and causing additional damage.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings in Baltimore, MD offer a wide range of benefits for your oral health. The composite used to make the filling is typically made from a mixture of plastic and porcelain, which significantly reduces the risk of allergies as opposed to metal, and they tend to be more comfortable. One of the best benefits is that they are much less noticeable than metal because the color blends with the natural color of your tooth. With proper care, tooth-colored fillings can last for several years.

If you have a cavity, the first step is to contact your dentist for an exam. Once it has been determined that you need a filling, the dentist will give your teeth a thorough cleaning to remove the bacteria and decayed tissue. The tooth will then be reshaped to accept the filling. If you currently have metal fillings, your dentist can also discuss with you the removal of the metal and replacement with composite. To learn more information about tooth-colored fillings in Baltimore, MD, contact Dr. Kimbers to schedule a consultation.