If you have a cavity or chip on your front tooth, you may require a filling that looks natural, lasts a long time, and is safe. The best filling for front teeth is one that blends into your smile and holds strong for years to come. When looking for tooth fillings in Cary, it’s good to know what’s out there to help you make the right decision. Front teeth are a lot different from back teeth. They are thinner, you see them more, and we use them primarily for biting, not chewing. This means you have to be more conscientious about what filling you are considering.
What Are the Most Popular Front Tooth Filling Materials?
There are different types of front tooth filling options. To make it easier to compare, we have a quick chart that describes the most common types of tooth filling materials:
| Material | Looks Natural? | Durable? | Safe? | Used For |
| Composite Resin | Yes | Good | Safe fillings for visible teeth | Small to medium fillings |
| Porcelain (Ceramic) | Yes (Best match) | Durable front tooth fillings | Safe | Larger or cosmetic fillings |
| Glass Ionomer | Fair | Less | Safe | Temporary or for kids |
| Amalgam (Metal) | No | Very | Mixed safety concerns | Back teeth only (not for front) |
Do Front Tooth Fillings Look Natural?
Yes! Fillings for front teeth can be as natural-looking as your real tooth. The best filling options include composite resin and porcelain, which are tooth-colored. Your dentist will match the shade of fillings to your other teeth, so no one will have any idea that you once had a filling done. Some fillings even have reflective qualities similar to natural, healthy enamel, so your smile stays nice and bright.
What Is the Most Common Front Tooth Filling?
The most common front tooth filling material is composite resin. It’s a combination of plastic and glass and is great for front teeth because:
- It’s tooth-colored and will blend in perfectly
- It will strongly bond to your tooth
- It can be easily shaped
- It’s done in one simple visit
How Long Do Front Tooth Fillings Last?
Most front tooth fillings last between 5-10 years. Some filling materials can last longer depending on how well you take care of them. The durability of fillings depends on:
- The type of filling material
- How much do you bite with your front teeth
- Whether you grind your teeth
- Brushing and flossing habits
Here’s a guide to how long each material lasts:
| Material | Average Lifespan |
| Composite Resin | 5–8 years |
| Porcelain | 10–15 years |
| Glass Ionomer | 3–5 years (less durable) |
Are These Fillings Safe?
Yes, front tooth fillings are very safe. Composite resin, porcelain, and glass ionomer do not contain any mercury or harmful metals. Older fillings made of silver (amalgam) that contain mercury are not used nowadays for front teeth, due to safety concerns.
What Is the Best Filling Material for Front Teeth?
It depends on what is most important to you. Here are the factors to decide:
- Want it to look natural? → Choose composite resin or porcelain
- Want it to last longer? → Porcelain is your best option
- Want something temporary? → Use glass ionomer
- Worried about staining? → Go with porcelain
How Can I Make My Filling Last Longer?
To keep your front tooth fillings strong and looking good:
- Brush twice a day and floss once a day
- Stop biting on hard objects like pens, nails, and ice
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
- Keep regular appointments with your Cary dentist
- If you have composite fillings, try and limit dark drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine etc, as they can stain
Can You Whiten a Filled Tooth?
Yes, but you need to be careful. Whitening treatments will make your natural teeth whiter, but they will not change the colour of your fillings. If you whiten your teeth after having a filling done, the filling may appear darker in comparison. Best course of action? Whiten your teeth before having the filling placed so your dentist can match the new colour of your teeth.
A Filling Can Restore Your Smile and Confidence
Having a front tooth filling done can replace your youthful smile and restore your confidence. With the right filling material, you will likely forget it’s there. Plus, these fillings are modern, safe, strong and made to last.
Visit a Trusted Dentist in Cary Right Away!
At Beavers Dentistry, we specialize in restoring the appearance of your front teeth. Our team of professionals use strong, natural-looking materials to ensure your filling blends in seamlessly with your smile. Our goal is to help you choose the option based on your needs, and we make it as comfortable as possible throughout the process. If you are in need of tooth fillings in Cary, come visit us at Beavers Dentistry, and we will help you smile again!
FAQs
Q: What is the best filling for front teeth?
A: Composite resin is the best choice because it looks natural, is strong, and bonds well to your tooth.
Q: Can front tooth fillings fall out?
A: Yes, if you bite something hard or don’t take care of your teeth. But they can be replaced easily.
Q: Is it painful to get a filling in your front tooth?
A: Not really! You may get a little numbing, and the procedure is usually quick and painless.
