No one wants to restore his oral health at the expense of his smile’s natural beauty. And for years that is precisely what restorative treatment meant. Metal fillings and crowns posed a number of potential problems, not the least of which was feeling insecure about the obvious dental work. Fortunately most modern dentists now offer alternatives to traditional metal restorations, which can offer both esthetic and functional benefits. So even if you’ve delayed dental treatment in the past, because of fear that your smile will then look like it has had work done, now is a great time to see what a dentist could do to seamlessly restore your smile!
Seamless Fillings and Crowns, Oh My!
Teeth fillings were once made primarily of metal, which was easily spotted and also problematic for patients with both metal allergies and sensitivities. Due to the high conductivity of metal, even patients without allergies often found/find metal dental work uncomfortable, particularly during meals.
Fortunately modern dentists frequently offer a more esthetically-pleasing and often more comfortable alternative, in the form of tooth-colored fillings. These fillings are made to blend seamlessly with teeth, and just as importantly they are made of a low conductivity material that also bonds well with teeth, creating a tight seal against further decay or even infection, as well as a comfortable and confident way to address cavities and other dental issues.
Of course, some issues require more extensive protection than a filling can provide. In these cases, the dentist may recommend a dental crown. And just as with fillings, many modern dentists now offer options that don’t involve unsightly metal.
Porcelain crowns have become one of the most popular options, because porcelain can be made to match teeth in shade, shape and even contouring. Also, porcelain is naturally stain-resistant and strong, allowing it to be cared for like your natural teeth, and to age similarly as well!
