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Say Goodbye to Tooth Decay
Are you looking for a natural-looking and durable solution to repair cavities or damaged teeth? Ceramic fillings, also called porcelain inlays and onlays, offer a modern alternative to traditional dental fillings. They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing both aesthetic appeal and exceptional durability.
To learn more about dental fillings or schedule an appointment at North East Dental Arts, call our North East, PA, dental office today at (814) 725-4700.
What Are Ceramic Fillings?
Ceramic fillings, also known as ceramic inlays or onlays, are dental restorations made from biocompatible ceramic materials that restore teeth damaged by decay, trauma, or wear. Unlike silver amalgam or composite resin fillings, ceramic fillings are highly durable, stain-resistant, and tailored to match your natural tooth structure.
Ceramic fillings are ideal for:
- Treating small to moderate-sized cavities.
- Patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.
- Restoring front teeth or teeth visible when smiling.
Types of Ceramic Materials
Modern advancements in dental care have led to the use of specialized ceramic materials for tooth-colored fillings:
- Porcelain: The most common choice for ceramic inlays and onlays due to its strength, natural appearance, and stain resistance.
- Zirconia: Known for its exceptional durability and ability to withstand heavy biting forces.
Benefits of Ceramic Fillings
Ceramic fillings provide numerous benefits that make them an excellent choice for repairing decayed teeth:
- Natural Appearance: Ceramic fillings are virtually invisible, blending seamlessly with your existing teeth.
- Durability: These fillings are highly resistant to cracks, chips, and wear, offering long-term reliability.
- Biocompatibility: Ceramic materials are metal-free, making them ideal for patients with metal allergies.
- Preservation of Tooth Structure: The procedure requires minimal removal of healthy tooth structure compared to amalgam fillings.
The Ceramic Filling Procedure
Dentists follow a streamlined process to restore your oral health and smile with ceramic porcelain fillings:
1. Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
Your dentist will perform a thorough exam to identify tooth decay or damage and discuss treatment options, including ceramic fillings.
2. Tooth Preparation
The affected tooth is prepared by removing decayed tooth tissue while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
3. Impression and Temporary Filling
An impression of your tooth is taken to customize your ceramic filling. A temporary filling may be placed to protect the tooth while the permanent restoration is crafted.
4. Custom Fabrication
The ceramic filling is designed in a dental laboratory by skilled dental technicians, ensuring a precise fit and natural appearance.
5. Bonding and Cementation
During your second office visit, the ceramic filling is securely bonded to your tooth using advanced dental cement for optimal durability and aesthetics.
Ceramic Fillings vs. Other Filling Materials
Ceramic vs. Silver Amalgam Fillings
- Aesthetics: Ceramic fillings offer a more natural appearance, while amalgam fillings are silver in color.
- Durability: Ceramic is less prone to expansion/contraction, reducing the risk of tooth fractures.
- Safety: Ceramic is free from mercury-mixed metals, making it a safer alternative for patients concerned about health risks.
Ceramic vs. Composite Resin Fillings
- Aesthetics: While both are tooth-colored fillings, ceramic materials are more stain-resistant.
- Durability: Ceramic fillings typically last longer and are stronger than composite resin fillings.
- Tooth Preparation: Composite fillings may require less tooth removal compared to ceramics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ceramic fillings stain over time?
Ceramic fillings are highly resistant to stains, but limiting foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine can help maintain their appearance.
Are ceramic fillings suitable for front teeth?
Yes, their natural appearance makes ceramic fillings an ideal option for restoring front teeth.
How long do ceramic fillings last?
On average, ceramic fillings last between 10 to 15 years, but with proper dental care and regular check-ups, they can last even longer.
Are ceramic fillings covered by insurance?
Coverage may vary depending on your dental insurance provider. Contact your provider to discuss your plan and eligibility for replacement fillings.
Contact Our North East Dental Team Today!
Ready to protect your smile with a beautiful and long-lasting solution? At North East Dental Arts, we provide personalized dental care to patients looking for solutions to tooth decay and damaged teeth.
Contact our office in North East, PA, today to learn more about dental fillings and other restorative options. Call (814) 725-4700 to schedule your consultation. We proudly serve patients from North East, Erie, Ripley, Findley Lake, and surrounding areas.