Dental Fillings Q & A
What are dental fillings?
When a dentist detects cavities on your tooth, they will remove the damaged part and “fill” the
empty area of the tooth. That’s why every person who has had cavities usually has dental fillings in
his or her mouth. At New Hyde Park Dental we believe our patients have to feel confident and
not think whether their fillings show every time they laugh or smile, that is why we use white
fillings which match the color of the teeth and are as strong as any other amalgam fillings.
What are the types of white fillings?
Composite fillings
Composite fillings are the most popular tooth-colored dental fillings. They are made from
quartz, powdered glass, silica or other ceramic components added to a resin base to
maintain their white color. A doctor will choose a shade matching your teeth and bond the
filling onto the area with an adhesive, shining afterwards onto it with light to set it. With this
kind of filling the doctor will remove less of the tooth, which has its advantages. Composite
fillings have been designed to withstand the normal wear and tear associated with the usage
of the mouth on a daily basis. They will last for years to come, providing your tooth with the
protection it needs to remain healthy. Costs may vary based on individual needs.
Porcelain fillings
Porcelain fillings are often referred to as dental inlays and Onlays. They are indirect fillings
because, unlike a composite filling that is done in our office, dental inlays and Onlays are
made in a laboratory and cemented or bonded to the structure of the tooth during a second
visit. Just as composite fillings, porcelain fillings don’t darken over time and are great
alternatives for people who have metal allergies. Unlike amalgam fillings, they don’t require
more of the tooth structure to be removed, just the decayed part. These fillings can be hard-wearing and long lasting.
New Hyde Park Dental proudly restores the dental health of all our patients. While keeping your
mouth cavity-free is our ultimate goal, if a cavity does occur, we offer white composite fillings to
restore your oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for you or a
family member. Costs may vary based on individual needs.