Ceramic Fillings in Wilmington and Seaford, DE

Please note we may not offer this service at our dental offices. Call Brown and Baran Family Dentistry for more information at our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589.

Say Goodbye to Tooth Decay

When cavities or damage threaten your smile, ceramic fillings—also known as ceramic inlays and onlays—provide an effective solution. These durable, tooth-colored fillings not only restore your teeth’s strength but also blend seamlessly with your natural tooth structure, offering both functionality and beauty.

At Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, our Wilmington and Seaford, DE, dentists proudly serve patients in Wilmington, Seaford, and surrounding Delaware communities. To schedule an appointment at Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, contact our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589.

What Are Ceramic Fillings?

Ceramic fillings, also known as porcelain inlays and onlays, are biocompatible dental restorations made from advanced materials like porcelain or zirconia, designed to repair teeth affected by decay, trauma, or wear. Customized to match your teeth’s natural appearance, ceramic fillings are ideal for patients seeking a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing solution.

When to consider ceramic fillings:

• Small to moderate cavities
• Allergic reactions to metal or composite materials
• Restoring chipped, cracked, or worn teeth
• Patients prioritizing a natural tooth-colored filling

Types of Ceramic Materials

• Porcelain: Commonly used for ceramic fillings due to its strength and aesthetics.
• Zirconia: Known for its exceptional durability and biocompatibility.

Benefits of Ceramic Fillings

Choosing ceramic fillings comes with several advantages:

• Aesthetic Appeal: These dental fillings mimic the look of natural teeth, making them ideal for both front and back teeth.
• Durability: Ceramic materials like zirconia and porcelain resist wear, cracks, and staining.
• Biocompatibility: They’re non-toxic and suitable for patients with metal allergies.
• Preservation of Healthy Tooth Structure: Compared to traditional fillings, ceramic fillings require less removal of natural tooth structure.
• Stain Resistance: Ceramic fillings maintain their bright appearance, even with regular consumption of coffee, tea, or wine.

The Ceramic Filling Procedure

1. Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Your dentist will examine your teeth, discuss treatment options, and determine whether a ceramic restoration is the best solution for your needs.

2. Tooth Preparation

The affected tooth is carefully prepared by removing decay while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

3. Impression and Temporary Filling

An impression of your tooth is taken and sent to a dental laboratory to create a customized ceramic inlay or onlay. Meanwhile, a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth.

4. Custom Fabrication

Using advanced techniques, a dental technician crafts your ceramic filling to match the shape, color, and size of your existing teeth.

5. Bonding and Cementation

At your follow-up visit, the custom ceramic filling is securely bonded to your tooth with dental cement, ensuring a seamless fit and natural appearance.

Ceramic Fillings vs. Other Filling Materials

Ceramic vs. Silver Amalgam Fillings

• Aesthetics: Ceramic fillings are tooth-colored, while amalgam fillings appears metallic.
• Biocompatibility: Ceramic is free of metals, making it hypoallergenic.
• Durability: Ceramic materials resist fractures and don’t expand or contract with temperature changes like amalgam does.

Ceramic vs. Composite Resin Fillings

• Durability: While composite resin is strong, ceramic fillings last longer and are less prone to wear.
• Stain Resistance: Ceramic materials resist stains better than composite.
• Tooth Structure: Composite fillings require less tooth preparation.