People appreciate the modern tooth-colored fillings for their aesthetic properties. When well-crafted, these fillings can blend in seamlessly with your natural tooth structure so that even you can’t tell where you’ve had your cavities drilled. However, these materials are not immune to the same staining agents that discolor your natural teeth. Over time, as you smoke or indulge in coffee, tea, sports drinks, and other colorful foodstuffs, you may notice a distinct, brownish outline developing around your fillings, betraying your dental work. And, to make matters worse, they can’t be bleached as easily as your natural teeth.
The good news is that you don’t need to have your fillings replaced every time they get stained. Your dentist should be able to restore their former attractive pearly white appearance simply by giving them a light polish. Neither the staining nor the polishing should compromise the durability or lifespan of your fillings. If you start to notice a discoloration on your white fillings, talk to our International District dentist for more information.