Composite Resin Fillings, Today’s Solution for Treating Cavities

For the most part, cavities can be prevented through diligent oral care. If you do develop a cavity, your Ormond Beach, Florida dentist can eliminate it with a composite resin filling. Most dentists today have upgraded to composite resin tooth-colored fillings for cavity treatment due to their cosmetic and restorative qualities. At Cooper Dental Group, we offer quick and effective diagnosis and treatment of decay to restore your smile’s health and beauty.

About Composite Fillings

Composite tooth-colored fillings offer an alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings for treating decay and protecting your teeth from future cavities. Composite fillings are a mix of resin material and glass particles, with no metal or mercury added to the compound. The resin material can be tinted to match the color of your teeth, so the filling isn’t noticeable when you smile. The natural tooth-colored appearance is one of the attributes people appreciate most about composite fillings.

One of our talented dentists will start with a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums for signs of decay or other dental issues. If a cavity is detected, we’ll remove the decay and prepare your tooth for a composite resin filling. The composite resin material is layered onto your tooth and hardened with a special light for secure bonding. Your dentist will shape the filling to conform to your tooth’s shape and polish it to give it a natural sparkle.

Advantages of Choosing Composite Resin Fillings

We love to see you smile! With composite fillings, you can smile with confidence as the filling blends in with the color of your teeth. Other advantages include the following:

Mercury and metal-free, posing no risk of metal allergies
Bond directly to your teeth without the need for extensive drilling.
Less tooth structure has to be removed, keeping more of your tooth structure intact.
Doesn’t expand or contract like silver fillings, making them less likely to come loose or cause tooth sensitivity.

Tooth-Colored Fillings FAQs

What Materials Are Used In The Fabrication Of A Tooth-Colored Filling?

Composite resin, a blend of plastic and tiny glass particles, is commonly used to create tooth-colored fillings. This material is designed to mimic the natural appearance of teeth. Composite resin is durable, customizable, and bonds directly to the tooth, making it a popular choice for fillings, particularly in visible areas. Your dentist will choose the appropriate shade to match the color of your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.

How Long Should I Expect My Tooth-Colored Fillings To Last?

Tooth-colored fillings are designed to last many years, typically 5 to 10 years. However, the lifespan depends on factors like the size of the filling, the location in your mouth, your oral habits, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene. Regular dental checkups help ensure your filling stays intact and functions properly.

Is A Tooth-Colored Filling As Strong As Metal Amalgam Fillings Of The Past?

Tooth-colored fillings may not be as strong as silver (amalgam) fillings in terms of wear resistance, especially for larger fillings in back teeth that experience heavy chewing pressure. However, advancements in composite resin have made tooth-colored fillings more durable. For most patients, tooth-colored fillings provide sufficient strength for both aesthetic and functional purposes, especially when placed in the front of the mouth or on smaller cavities.

Can Tooth-Colored Fillings Be Used for Large Cavities?

While tooth-colored fillings work well for smaller and medium-sized cavities, larger cavities may require a more durable filling, such as porcelain or a crown. Composite resin fillings are generally not recommended for very large cavities because they may not withstand the stress and pressure from chewing over time. Your dentist will evaluate your cavity size and suggest the best solution.

Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Safe?

Yes, tooth-colored fillings made from composite resins are considered safe. Unlike silver amalgam fillings, which contain small amounts of mercury, composite resins do not pose any health risks. They are biocompatible and do not cause reactions in the body. If you have any concerns about the materials used in your fillings, it’s important to discuss them with your dentist so they can provide more detailed information and options.

Will My Tooth-Colored Filling Become Stained As Time Progresses?

Tooth-colored fillings are stain-resistant but can still accumulate surface stains from foods and beverages like coffee, tea, or red wine. Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent staining. Over time, your filling may lose some luster, but it can usually be polished during a dental visit to restore its original shine. Maintaining good oral hygiene will help your filling last longer and retain its appearance.

How Are Tooth-Colored Fillings Placed?

A tooth-colored filling usually only has to be placed at a single dental appointment. To make you comfortable, your dentist will first apply a local anesthetic to the area surrounding the cavity. The cavity is cleansed after the decaying part of the tooth is extracted. Next, successive layers of the composite resin are applied. A specific light will be used to harden each layer as it is applied. Following the setting of the last layer, the filling will be polished and contoured to fit your tooth’s natural curves, guaranteeing a functional and aesthetic outcome.