Ultimate Guide for Composite Fillings

Dental fillings are some of the most popular procedures in any dental care clinic near you. If you’ve ever had a cavity, your dentist most likely discussed dental fillings with you. Fillings are a type of restorative dentistry that seeks to restore a damaged tooth’s oral appearance and function.

Dental fillings can be made from numerous materials, including resin, gold, and silver. If you’re looking for the most natural results, a composite filling is an ideal option. Composite fillings are made from resin to ensure that they match perfectly with your natural tooth.

If you’re not sure whether you can benefit from composite fillings, you should see your dentist for a dental examination. The dentist will review the condition of your tooth and advise you accordingly. If you’re qualified for composite fillings, the dentist will prepare a treatment plan and work with you to schedule the procedure.

Dental Issues Solved by Composite Fillings

Composite fillings can be used to address several dental problems, including:

• Closing teeth gaps
• Chipped teeth
• Broken or cracked teeth
• Decayed or diseased teeth
• Worn-out teeth

What to Expect in a Composite Fillings Procedure

If you’re wondering what goes on during a composite filling procedure, here is a typical procedure of what to expect:

• The dentist begins by selecting a shade of resin that blends perfectly with your natural teeth.
• You’ll be injected with a numbing agent to keep you relaxed during the procedure.
• The dentist cleans and dries the tooth to prepare it for the filling. If necessary, tooth shaving may be done, especially if you have extensive damage.
• The dentist then drills into the damaged tooth and removes the infected tissues and nerves of the tooth.
• Next, the dentist fills the hole of the tooth with composite material. This prevents bacteria from getting into the tooth, leading to further decay.
• The composite material is bonded to the existing tooth using a special ultraviolet light. The bonding strengthens the tooth, restoring its bite function.
• The dentist then shapes, contours, and polishes the tooth.
• Lastly, the dentist will review your bite to ensure the restoration is perfect and comfortable.

Composite Fillings Benefits

• Durable – Composite fillings can last around 5 – 10 years or more if well cared for.
• They blend well with natural teeth – composite fillings have a natural appearance. This makes them visually invisible.
• Quick – The procedure can be completed within a single appointment.
• They are safe.
• Composite fillings restore your oral function and appearance.
• Strong – composite fillings resist fracture.
• Composite fillings form a strong bond with the tooth.
• Can fix numerous dental problems – Composite fillings can be used to solve numerous dental issues such as tooth decay, bacterial infection, and chipped teeth.
• Only minimal drilling is required, preserving more of the natural tooth.

Cons of Composite Fillings

• Short-lived sensitivity.
• Shorter lifespan than gold or amalgam fillings.

Do Composite Fillings Hurt?

While getting composite fillings isn’t a complex procedure, the dentist will still need to do certain things like tooth shaving and drilling. Fortunately, you’ll be numbed to prevent pain and discomfort during the procedure. After the procedure, it is possible to experience some discomfort and sensitivity to cold and heat. However, this should fade away pretty quickly.

Are Composite Fillings Safe?

Generally, composite fillings have no health concerns. Together with dental sealants, composite fillings are made from resin materials.

Caring For Your Composite Fillings

While composite fillings can serve you for more than ten years, proper dental care and hygiene is essential. To care for your composite fillings and other oral structures, use these tips:

• Brush and floss daily.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-based toothpaste.
• Avoid biting down on hard objects or foods.
• Eat healthier and hydrate well.
• Wear a mouthguard during contact physical activities.
• Wear a nightguard if you have bruxism.
• Avoid acidic and sugary foods – They can cause the composite fillings to wear out much faster.
• Avoid stain-causing foods and drinks.
• Schedule regular dental exams and cleanings.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you have mild to average tooth damage, you can benefit from composite fillings. Contact Advanced Dental of Westport, CT, to book your appointment today for composite fillings services.