What Is a Composite Dental Filling?

A composite dental filling is generally used clinically to restore a tooth whose structure is impaired by decay, cracks or fractures. A dentist will remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and replace it with composite resins. They are often chosen because they can be customized to match the tooth’s color and restore the smile’s appearance.

Composite dental fillings: A safe dental restoration

Composite dental fillings have existed for many years as a safe and stable dental restoration procedure. Dentists have improved the method over the years to make the filling blend in seamlessly and make the presence of a dental restoration less obvious. The composite materials are also stronger and more durable than before, meaning they can withstand normal chewing and eating. After completing the filling process, the tooth should be back to normal and less painful. There is a short recovery time, and patients can return to their normal routine as quickly as possible.

Placing composite fillings

First, the general dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and clean the area thoroughly. After preparing the tooth, the dentist will apply the composite resin material in multiple layers, using a special light to cure or harden each layer. When the cavity is filled, composite will be shaped to the tooth’s structure. Afterward, the dental professional will polish the composite to prevent premature wear and staining.

The advantage of composite fillings

Many people prefer composite dental filling over silver (amalgam) fillings because they look better and are more conservative. To place a composite filling, the dentist will only need to prepare a small area of the tooth. In the case of silver fillings, a more significant portion of the tooth is removed to place the filling. Therefore, composite fillings ensure better tooth stability since it preserves more of the tooth structure. The tooth is less likely to weaken and break.

Since composite fillings are minimally invasive, they are typically smaller. If the filling ever needs replacement, the dentist will have more tooth structure to handle. It is much harder to replace amalgam or other metal fillings. In most cases, the best option is to use a crown. Unless the composite filling has taken most of the tooth’s structure, there is usually no need to use a crown.

Disadvantages of composite fillings

After getting a composite filling, the patient may experience slight tooth sensitivity. Also, the color of the filling can change slightly if the patient consumes teeth-staining foods and drinks like tea and coffee. The dentist can apply a transparent plastic coating over the filling to prevent discoloration if the patient is worried about their teeth’s appearance. Compared to silver fillings, they have a shorter lifespan, but with proper care, patients can get more than five years of use.

In conclusion

When you visit the dental office, the general dentist will walk you through the process of applying composite dental filling and provide suggestions on how to care for your new dental restoration. To learn more about the procedure, book an appointment for a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://www.titandentalcare.com or call Titan Dental Care at (703) 745-3227 for an appointment in our Sterling office.

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