When a tooth has decay, cavities, or has been chipped due to an injury, a composite filling can be utilized for its restoration. By reinforcing the tooth, composite fillings protect and strengthen it while also stopping the decay from progressing.
Compared to traditional metal amalgam fillings, composite fillings are now favored by most dentists because they are non-toxic and provide a more natural looking appearance.
Composite fillings are a type of dental filling material that is used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. They are made from a combination of high-grade, non-toxic quartz and hypo-allergenic plastic resin, which can be blended to match the color of your natural teeth.
They have become increasingly popular in recent years because they offer several advantages over traditional metal amalgam fillings. They are more aesthetically pleasing because they blend in with the color of your natural teeth, and they require less removal of healthy tooth structure to place them. Additionally, composite fillings are non-toxic and do not contain any mercury, which is a concern for some people who have metal allergies or sensitivities.
By getting a new composite filling, you can restore the health of your teeth by eliminating cavities and preventing bacteria buildup. Additionally, the filling can protect the inner nerve and reduce any pain caused by cavities.
If left untreated, a cavity can cause significant damage to the structure of your tooth, which may result in the need for more extensive dental work. Neglecting to get a filling can also lead to the loss of your tooth.
Modern composite fillings serve multiple purposes, such as treating cavities by removing decay and protecting the tooth from further damage, repairing chipped or broken teeth to restore their appearance and strength, strengthening worn-down teeth, and filling in gaps between teeth. These fillings are also safe and effective and can be matched to the color of your existing teeth for a natural look.
To maintain the longevity of your composite fillings, it is essential to practice proper oral hygiene habits. Brush, floss, and rinse with high-quality dental care products twice daily. Avoid chewing hard foods like ice and hard candy and consume foods that promote healthy teeth. It is also important to schedule regular dental appointments for cleanings and check-ups twice a year. Additionally, if you grind your teeth, using a mouth guard during sports and sleep can help protect your fillings and teeth.
The duration of a composite filling procedure can vary, taking about an hour or longer depending on the number of cavities being treated. Before the procedure begins, a local anesthetic will be administered by the assistant to numb your gums, teeth, and the surrounding area, reducing pain or discomfort during the process. After the filling is installed, it may take some time for the anesthetic to wear off, resulting in a numb mouth for a few hours. During this time, it is important to avoid eating or drinking to allow for proper healing.
To restore the tooth, your Anaheim dentist will use a composite filling that is molded to fit the shape of your tooth and bite. A composite filling mixture that matches the color of your natural teeth will be applied to the tooth and shaped to fill in the space. The non-toxic composite bonding material is then used to stabilize the mixture. The composite filling is gradually layered to fill the cavity, and ultraviolet light is used to cure each layer as it hardens, allowing the next layer to be placed until the space is filled.
The cost of composite fillings can vary based on several factors. The number of teeth requiring fillings, the extent of the damage being treated, and the location of the affected teeth can all impact the cost. Our team will assess these factors and provide you with a reasonable estimate that fits your budget.
Don’t Delay in Treating Tooth Decay!
Call Dentist of Anaheim now at (714) 261-2098 to schedule a consultation to see if a composite feeling is right for you!
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