Are front tooth fillings noticeable?
If you think you’ve got a cavity in one of your front teeth, you may be worried about what your smile will look like after you get a dental filling. At City Point Dental, we use color-matched, tooth-like materials to restore your smile, rather than old-school metal fillings.
Still, you may be wondering if your front tooth filling will be noticeable. The answer? No! At our office, Dr. Daniel Baker uses the latest technology and planning tools to ensure a seamless result, with a focus on both functionality and aesthetics.
Understanding front teeth fillings
Today’s fillings for front teeth are a far cry from the metal-amalgam materials that were used in the past. At our office, Dr. Baker and our team use modern dental composite materials to restore and repair front teeth with cavities. Here’s what you need to know about composite fillings:
They're made from a mixture of dental resin and crushed glass particles
When placed, composite fillings look very similar to natural enamel, providing a seamless restoration
Front teeth fillings can usually last 5-7 years or longer with proper care, though you’ll need to avoid things like biting into hard foods with front teeth to avoid chipping
The process of getting a front tooth filling
Getting a front tooth filling is pretty similar to having one of your rear teeth filled. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect from the process:
Consultation: First, you’ll meet with Dr. Baker and our team to determine if a front tooth filling is right for you, or if you may be better off with an alternative like a dental crown.
Tooth trimming: At your next visit, our team will begin by cleaning and numbing your mouth, then removing any decayed material from the tooth.
Applying your filling: We will match the filling color to your tooth perfectly, ensuring a seamless result. Once the filling material is in place, Dr. Baker will harden it with a UV light and trim it into the proper shape.
Finishing up: The last step is to refine and reshape your filling, then make sure it fits into your bite perfectly. Then, you’ll be sent home with your newly restored smile.
The benefits of modern fillings
If it’s been a while since you’ve had a tooth filled, you may be wondering what the benefits of modern composite materials and filling placement are. Here’s a quick look at the advantages of using the latest materials and filling techniques:
Seamless restoration: Modern dental composites look nearly identical to natural enamel in color, translucency, and overall appearance. This ensures that your smile looks perfect!
Preserves more tooth structure: Compared to metal fillings, composite fillings require less drilling, allowing you to preserve more enamel.
Metal-free: While metal amalgam fillings are still accepted as safe by the ADA, many patients don’t like the idea of having metals like mercury in their teeth. Modern composite fillings are 100% metal-free!
Maintaining your smile after a front tooth filling
Once your new filling is in place, it’s best to take a few steps to maintain it and keep it in good shape. Here are some care recommendations from our dental team in Hopewell:
Avoid biting with front teeth: You shouldn’t bite into really hard foods (raw vegetables, baguettes, ice, etc.) with your front teeth. Use your rear teeth to prevent chipping and premature wear.
Maintain great oral hygiene: Brush at least twice daily, floss once per day, and use antibacterial mouthwash to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Don’t forget about six-month checkups: Twice-yearly teeth cleanings and oral exams allow Dr. Baker and our team to check on your fillings and your natural teeth, and to look for additional decay or other potential oral health issues.
Schedule your appointment in Hopewell today
At City Point Dental in Hopewell, VA, we're dedicated to providing approachable, friendly, and judgment-free dental care. If you think you need a filling in one of your front teeth or have any other dental concerns, Dr. Daniel Baker and our friendly team are here to help. Call us today at (804) 541-1896 to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a brighter, more confident smile.
