Fillings

COMPOSITE FILLINGS

We have all bitten onto a piece of ice or even skipped brushing our teeth at least one. Though it won’t hurt your teeth to sparingly do something bad for them, you should not do this too often. Repeated wear on your teeth can be a serious problem and can cause cracks, fractures, and decay. A composite filling is used once the decayed or affected portion of the tooth is removed. As the decayed area is removed, the tooth is then filled with a composite filling and allowed to dry.

Filling materials are diverse, and at Christiana Dentist, we have plenty of material options available. You and your dentist can discuss what material is the best option for you, as well as which one will work best for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are by far the most popular filling in use today. Due to the fact that composite fillings are tooth-colored, they can be closely matched to the color of your existing teeth. This can, obviously, be a huge advantage for you, as your teeth will look uniform and more aesthetically pleasing. Other fillings are colored, and can be problematic and distracting. Because of this, fillings that are easily camouflaged to your smile are most desirable.

It is important to remember that composite fillings are not permanent and may have to be replaced at some point. However, they are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile.

REASONS FOR COMPOSITE FILLINGS:

• You have chipped teeth.
• If you would like to close a space between two of your teeth.
• If you have cracked or broken teeth.
• You have decayed teeth.
• Your teeth are worn..
• You are looking for a cosmetic upgrade for your smile.

HOW ARE COMPOSITE FILLINGS PLACED?

You can have your composite fillings placed in just one appointment. Your dentist will numb your tooth and carefully extract all of the decayed tissue from inside the tooth. The area will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is imput. If the decay is near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied to thoroughly numb the area. Once you are fully numbed, your dentist will them make sure the composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

It is normal to experience mild sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly, after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.

Good oral hygiene practices, healthy eating habits, and regular dental visits will help maintain your new fillings.