Having a cavity is painful and damaging to your teeth, so it’s important to have them filled as soon as possible. If you don’t like the look of traditional silver amalgam fillings, Brian S. Kubo, DDS, offers another option. This dental practice in Kamuela, HI, provides composite fillings, which are tooth-colored. This high-quality composite resin treats cavities just as well as silver fillings, but won’t impact the look of your smile.

Read on to learn more about composite fillings and when you would receive them:

• Aesthetics: Silver amalgam is traditionally used to fill cavities as it is durable and cost-effective. However, the silver is obvious against the whites of your teeth, making it a less attractive option. If you have cavities—especially in the front of your mouth—consider composite fillings, which can match your natural teeth color. By blending the right shades together, your dentist will strengthen your teeth without compromising the look of your smile.

• Functional Benefits: Composite fillings have some functional benefits, as well as aesthetic. In the last few decades, composite resin has become stronger, enabling it to actually improve natural tooth structure. They also can help insulate your teeth from extreme temperatures.

• Caveats: While composite fillings are highly durable and functional, they may not be feasible for every cavity. Composite fillings should only be used in small cavities, and they should not be placed where they will be subjected to a lot of pressure. You will typically get them in or around your front teeth, and you may also need to replace them after one or two decades. Dental technology has come a long way, but the dental industry has yet to engineer a substance as strong as silver amalgam but with the customizable looks of composite fillings.

Want to avoid fillings in the first place? By brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist twice a year, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining the best smile. To schedule an appointment at the office of Brian S. Kubo, DDS, call (808) 885-8465. For more details about this Kamuela cosmetic dentistry practice, visit them online.