Services > Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth Colored Fillings in North Andover
A tooth colored filling (also known as bonding) is the simplest and most conservative way to repair a broken or decayed tooth. A common concern with having fillings done is whether they would be noticeable or not. Dr. Lee will make sure that the fillings look as natural as possible by matching the shade of the fillings to your own teeth. Also, bonding can be an excellent solution for cosmetic improvement of smile that can be more affordable than porcelain veneers or braces. If you have any questions regarding fillings, please feel free to give us a call at (978)965-4315.
What is the process of getting a filling done at your office?
- To ensure that you are as comfortable as possible throughout your filling visit, Dr. Lee will apply a small amount of numbing gel to minimize the “pinch” prior to administering local anesthetics that will numb the tooth as well as the gums surrounding the tooth.
- Once fully numb, you can rest your jaw on our special system called Dryshield®. Our Dryshield® system also suctions water and saliva, and keeps the cheek and the tongue away from the tooth. Our Dryshield® system will help you relax.
- After decayed part of the tooth is removed and cleaned, tooth colored filling that matches your tooth color is bonded and cured hard with LED light.
- The filling is finished and polished so that it feels and looks natural.
Will getting fillings hurt?
Not at all! You will be fully numb (and we always make sure that you are) so you shouldn’t have any discomfort.
How long do dental fillings last?
Fillings can typically last a few years to 6 years or more. Fillings fail most commonly when they chip or get cavities under them. Adhering to the following recommendations will help keep your fillings last as long as possible:
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day.
- Keep medication induced dry mouth under control. Here is how:
- Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies to stimulate salivary flow.
- Sip plain water frequently throughout the day.
- Use alcohol free mouth rinse as alcohol can dry mouth.
- Use prescription strength fluoride toothpaste and fluoride mouth rinse to prevent tooth decay. Dry mouth results in higher risk of getting tooth decay.
- Use saliva substitute products such as Biotene and Xylimelts.
- Avoid frequent snacking throughout the day with a diet high in sugar and acid (find more about acid erosion and cavities here).
- Keep acid reflux under control with medication and by avoiding reflux triggering diet such as fried or spicy foods. (find more about tooth acid reflux here)