Tooth-Colored and Gold Fillings

Dr. Scott Lampert has had extensive prosthodontics training and provides exquisite dental restorations of all kinds. When you are in need of a filling, he will counsel you on the best type of filling for the tooth. He will take into consideration whether the tooth will show when you smile, talk and laugh. Depending on which tooth it is and how big the filling needs to be, he will consider the durability of the filling materials.

Tooth-colored fillings are typically made of dental composite resin. Tooth-colored porcelain inlays, which are more stain resistant and long lasting, can be made by a dental lab and used in place of resin. Both dental composite and porcelain come in numerous shades. This means that Dr. Lampert can match your restoration to the natural color of your tooth. Your resin or porcelain filling will seamlessly blend with the surrounding tooth structure. If you are unhappy with the current color of your teeth, the optimal time to brighten your smile with tooth whitening is prior to any tooth-colored restorations. Click here for more information about our tooth whitening options!

Dr. Lampert also offers cast gold inlays for patients who prefer gold restorations. Many times the strength of gold is an optimal choice, especially in back molars that endure grinding forces.

Composite fillings, and porcelain and gold inlays are used for small to medium size cavities. When tooth structure is greatly damaged, as in the case of a large cavity, the most effective treatment is a dental crown and may involve root canal therapy prior to crown restoration. If the tooth is broken or abscessed, a crown may not be feasible. In this case, the tooth can be removed and replaced with a bridge or dental implant.

What to Expect When You Receive a Filling

After examining your tooth, Dr. Lampert will tell you about the appropriate treatment options for your circumstances. You will discuss the advantages of the options and your preferences. Before beginning your treatment, he will completely numb your tooth, so you will feel only a little pressure during the process. If you suffer from dental anxiety, other comfort measures will be offered. When you are numb, Dr. Lampert will carefully remove the decayed portion of your tooth and eliminate all bacteria. Next a bonding solution will be applied and he will place the filling material. If a composite filling is being done, he will use a curing light to harden the filling. When he has completely filled the cavity, your tooth will be polished.

Your new filling will strengthen the outer walls of your tooth and also seal off the inside of your tooth, preventing bacteria from returning and causing further injury.

Do you think you have a dental cavity?

Whether you are an existing patient or someone seeking a dentist, we are here for you. Give us a call today if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Toothache
• Pain when you bite down
• Mild to sharp pain when eating or drinking something sweet, hot or cold
• Tooth sensitivity
• Visible holes or tiny pits in your teeth
• Brown, black or white staining on a tooth

Dr. Lampert prides himself in performing painless dentistry and focuses on making sure he lives up to this reputation. We offer guidance and sedation options to ease your nerves and enable you to receive the treatment you need.