Tooth colored or aesthetic fillings have been around for more than 30 years, however there has been and continues to be revolutionary improvements in these materials. The strength of these aesthetic fillings in some areas can equal or surpass the strength of more traditional non aesthetic materials.

You may have heard of Veneers, Inlay and/or Crowns. What are they and when is one better than the other?

This needs to be assessed and planned for following an examination. Your dentist will give you the best option for your particular case.

Fillings are used where the damage to the tooth is moderate. If you have decay or need replacement of an old amalgam filling, a tooth-coloured Composite filling is adequate. There is also the option to have a porcelain inlay filling on back teeth.

For front teeth, if a filling has discolored over the years it can be redone using Composite filling technology that should not discolour as quickly.

However if you fracture a bigger piece of a front tooth or you need to change the shape and colour of a number of front teeth, veneers in composite or porcelain would be the way to go.

What’s better - porcelain or composite?

Your dentist would need to fashion models of your existing problem teeth and carefully plan veneers to match the best shape and colour.

Composite Veneer materials have become very aesthetic and because the dentist shapes these artistically in layers, the result is excellent. Composite veneers usually require minimal preparation of the teeth and bond in less time than when using porcelain.

Porcelain Veneers require more tooth preparation, and an extra step to fashion then bond the Veneers to your teeth. Composite Veneers are usually much easier to repair if damaged and are generally half the cost of Porcelain Veneers.

If your teeth are heavily damaged, Porcelain crowns work better and are stronger. The tooth and remaining filling is shaped by your dentist, then a scan or impression taken. A crown is then fashioned digitally via computer. Your newly made crown can then be bonded to the remaining prepared tooth and will match the shape and color of your adjacent natural teeth.

We all wish for beautiful teeth, however over time teeth can wear and discolour. It may be worth considering Composite Veneers as the most cost effective and simple option.

At Chatswood Dental Care we have many years experience in fashioning Composite Veneers.

For examples visit our smile gallery!

Whether you need fillings or veneers, Chatswood Dental Care is ready to help you - give us a call on (02) 9412 2295 and schedule an appointment.

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