The Benefits of Composite Fillings

A composite filling is a tooth-colored resin to restore decayed and damaged teeth. The composite material is durable, so it can withstand the pressure of biting and chewing. Unlike metal restorations, composite fillings blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth. They are also less noticeable than other fillings, such as amalgam. For this reason, they are a popular choice among adult patients wanting to enhance their smile makeover.

At Ygnacio Dental, composite fillings provide patients with multiple benefits. First, they protect the structure of your tooth while restoring its appearance. In addition to making your smile look natural and healthy, the fillings can prevent further decay or infection. 

When Are Composite Fillings Used?

Composite fillings provide an excellent way to restore damaged teeth and close the gaps created by mild cases of tooth decay. They are versatile and can be matched to the natural color of a patient’s smile so that they blend seamlessly into the mouth. In many cases, they can also fill cavities on the front teeth without requiring an aesthetic.

These restorations can be used on the front teeth where appearance is essential. Composite fillings are bonded to the tooth, requiring less preparation than an amalgam filling. Therefore, you are less likely to experience sensitivity in the treated area. These factors make composite fillings an excellent choice for patients with cavities or damage.

The Procedure For Composite Fillings

A dentist will begin by using an anesthetic to numb the treated area. They will then remove the affected portion of the tooth and prepare the area for the filling material placement by cleaning out any debris from the affected area. This will prepare the tooth for the filling and create a stable foundation for placing the composite material. Once the area is ready, the dentist will place the composite resin in layers over the exposed areas of the tooth and use a special light specifically designed to cure the material as it hardens. The dentist will then apply additional layers of composite material until the tooth is restored to its original shape and function. The final layers of the filling are smoothed and polished to create a natural-looking finish. With proper care, composite fillings can last for several years before needing to be replaced. 

By following proper oral hygiene practices and avoiding chewing on complex objects such as ice, patients can help prolong the life of their composite fillings. Good dental care will also help prevent cavities and the need for further dental treatment.

To discuss the benefits of composite fillings in more detail, contact Ygnacio Dental at 1766 Lacassie Ave # 101, Walnut Creek, CA 94596, or call (925) 280-2848 to schedule your consultation today!