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Tooth-Colored Fillings in Nutley, NJ

If you’ve never had a cavity, consider yourself one of the lucky ones! Most of us encounter tooth decay and the need for a dental filling at some point. Perhaps you’ve had a cavity filled with metal Close up of dental filling | Nutley Dentist amalgam? You’ll be happy to know that metal fillings are a thing of the past.

Today’s material of choice for dental fillings is composite resin, which is easy for Dr. Richard Tom to work with, It can be custom shaded to match the color of your tooth, so your filling is not noticeable.

Why Do I Have a Cavity?

Cavities are the result of decay that eats away your tooth enamel, leaving a hole that we will need to repair. A white film called plaque develops on your teeth when you eat. The bacteria that live inside plaque use sugar as their fuel, which causes them to produce acid as a byproduct. It is the acid that eats away tooth enamel and causes cavities.

You increase your risk of developing cavities when you consume sugary or acidic foods or beverages. Brushing your teeth at least twice per day and flossing at least once eliminates plaque buildup and reduces your risk of developing cavities.

Yes – you can get cavities in between your teeth, which is why flossing is essential. Regular dental checkups with Dr. Tom will also protect your teeth from tooth decay, which he can detect very early on.

Why We Use Composite Resin

Dr. Tom chooses this versatile material not only for its aesthetic benefits but also for the durability it provides. Composite keeps more of your natural tooth structure intact since it is bonded directly to your tooth.

Metal fillings react to the constant temperature changes in your mouth by expanding and contracting. Over time, this reaction causes your filling to separate from your tooth, allowing bacteria back into it to cause more damage. Composite doesn’t have the same response to hot and cold that metal does, and since it is bonded directly to your tooth, it provides greater durability.

Dental Bonding

Woman in dental chair | Nutley NJ Dentist Composite resin material can also be used to restore minor cosmetic imperfections through a process called dental bonding. Composite can be bonded to your tooth to cover issues such as spacing between teeth, chipping, staining, fractures, and oddly shaped teeth.

Bonding is a noninvasive and quick way to enhance your smile. We can typically complete the procedure in one visit with Dr. Tom. It also tends to be less expensive than other cosmetic procedures, making it an affordable way to improve your appearance.

Is it time for your next cleaning and checkup? Give RT Dental a call today to schedule a convenient time for your visit with Dr. Tom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin durable shells made of tooth colored materials that are bonded to the surface of a tooth to enhance its appearance.

What are the types of veneers?

Porcelain and composite bonding are the most common veneer materials. Composite veneers are made of a resin that is shaped and bonded to a tooth to enhance the appearance. Porcelain veneers are usually made in a lab and are more resistant to staining, compared to other materials.

Should I choose composite bonding or porcelain veneers?

Ask your dentist which option is best for you. If the needed changes are minor and the teeth function properly, cosmetic bonding is an appropriate choice. If teeth are spaced, broken, dark, and/or the patient clenches or grinds their teeth, then porcelain veneers may be the preferred option.

Why do I need dental veneers?

Dental veneers are a great solution for people with discolored, worn down, chipped, misaligned, spaced, uneven or irregularly shaped front teeth.

What is involved in getting a dental veneer?

Getting a porcelain veneer is usually a multi-step process. The first step is to get a consultation with a dentist. At this visit, you can outline your goals and concerns, and the dentist will explain how veneers will work for you. X-rays or impressions of your teeth may be needed. The second step is to prepare the tooth for the veneer. A small amount of tooth structure is removed and an impression is made. The dentist will then place temporary veneers. At the next appointment, temporaries are removed, and the final veneer is bonded to your tooth.

In the case of veneers made from tooth colored filling material, or composite bonding, this is a one appointment process in which the dentist will remove a small amount of tooth structure and bond filling material to your teeth. This type of veneer is not as long lasting and doesn’t resist staining as well as a porcelain veneer.

What are the advantages of dental veneers?

The preparation of veneers preserve the most amount of tooth structure, as very little needs to be removed. They can improve the appearance of your teeth, and gum tissues respond well to dental veneers. The color can be custom selected, and in the case of porcelain veneers they are stain resistant.

What are the drawbacks of dental veneers?

Once you have had your tooth prepared for the veneer, the process is not reversible. In the case that a veneer cracks, it is difficult to repair without having to replace the entire veneer. It is important to not have habits like pen-chewing or nail-biting as these can crack the veneer. Veneers are not a good option for people with poor gum health. In addition, people who grind or clench their teeth are at risk for chipping or cracking their veneers. Lastly, veneers are still susceptible to decay so it is important that you maintain optimal oral health and visit your dentist regularly.

Who is a good candidate for porcelain veneers?

If you have stained or chipped teeth, you might be interested in veneers as they will cover up your existing teeth.They are also a popular treatment for smile makeovers or for individuals who want their dream smile.

Meet Our Doctor:

Dr. Richard Tom

Dr. Richard Tom graduated with a B.A. in Biology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. He also served as a soldier in the U.S. Army Reserve with the rank of Specialist in Infantry and Fuel Supply. He then attended the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (now the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine) and received his dental degree in 2001. Afterward, Dr. Tom completed a year-long comprehensive residency in all phases of dentistry and basic hospital medicine at St. Barnabas Hospital in New York City, a Level 1 Trauma Center that serves ...

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