Composite Fillings
Composite Tooth Fillings in Mesa, AZ
Tooth decay can develop in people young and old. While poor oral health habits can lead to cavities, it’s possible for a cavity to form even with daily brushing and flossing. Luckily, tooth decay is easily treatable with composite dental fillings. If you suspect that you may have a cavity, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Seeking professional dental care as quickly as possible is the best way to prevent minor oral health concerns from progressing into more complicated ones. Here’s what you should know about composite tooth fillings before scheduling your appointment at Restoration Dental.
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Overview of Dental Fillings
Tooth decay, also called cavities or caries, are holes that form on the surface of your teeth; these holes start off very tiny (sometimes they’re invisible to the naked eye), but can quickly grow bigger if not treated. They can result from a number of factors but usually form when bacteria and food particles are left behind in your mouth as a result of poor oral hygiene habits. Even though cavities are very common, they should be taken seriously. Like many other dental issues, cavities require professional dental care to be resolved. The best way to identify and treat cavities in a timely manner is to visit your dentist at least every six months for routine exams and professional cleanings.
Cavity Treatment
Getting a cavity filled is a dental treatment that is quick, simple, and should be virtually painless. During your cavity treatment at Restoration Dental, here’s what will take place:
- The dentist will ensure that your mouth is numb using a local anesthetic.
- When the infected tooth is numb, they will remove the decay from inside of it.
- A tooth-colored material will be used to fill in the empty hole left behind by the decay.
- An LED light will be held up to the tooth to expedite the hardening process.
Benefits of Composite Tooth Fillings:
- Aesthetics: Blend seamlessly with natural tooth color for a more pleasing appearance.
- Preservation of Tooth Structure: Requires less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to other fillings, preserving the integrity of the tooth.
- Versatility: Suitable for repairing cavities in both front and back teeth, offering versatility in dental decay treatment.
- Bonding Strength: Bond directly to the tooth structure, providing strong support and stability.
- Reduced Sensitivity: Typically causes less post-operative sensitivity, minimizing discomfort for patients.
Risk Factors for Tooth Decay:
Several factors contribute to the development of tooth decay:
- Dietary Habits: Consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages can contribute to the formation of cavities by providing fuel for bacteria that produce acid, which erodes tooth enamel.
- Oral Hygiene Practices: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque and food particles to accumulate on the teeth, promoting bacterial growth and increasing the risk of cavities.
- Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva flow, often caused by medications or medical conditions, can lead to a dry mouth environment that is conducive to bacterial growth and tooth decay.
- Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may be more genetically susceptible to tooth decay due to factors such as enamel structure and saliva composition.
- Poor Oral Health Habits: Skipping regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings can allow cavities to go undetected and untreated, leading to more extensive dental problems over time.
Is Getting a Cavity Painful?
Some cavities can cause sensitivity or even pain around the infected tooth. However, it’s also normal to have a cavity and not even realize it until the dentist points it out. Regardless of whether your cavity is causing you discomfort, the experience of getting a cavity filled at Restoration Dental should be a painless one. If you do feel discomfort during your procedure, please let our dental team know right away.
How Long Does Getting a Cavity Filled Take?
Most tooth filling appointments take about half an hour to complete. The length of your appointment could take longer if you have multiple cavities to fill and depending on the size and location of the decay.
Can I Drive Myself Home After a Tooth Filling?
Because we only use a local anesthetic to numb the area around teeth requiring composite fillings, it’s completely safe to drive yourself home when your procedure is complete.
Dental Filling Cost
Most dental insurance plans will cover at least part of the cost of composite dental fillings. To learn more about what your dental insurance policy includes, please contact our office.
FAQs about Composite Tooth Fillings:
What are composite tooth fillings made of?
Composite fillings are made of a mixture of tooth-colored plastic resin and finely ground glass particles. This composite material is durable and provides a natural appearance that closely matches the color and texture of natural teeth.
How do composite fillings differ from other types of fillings, such as amalgam?
Unlike silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings are tooth-colored and blend seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure. Additionally, composite fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure and offer improved bonding strength to the tooth.
Are composite fillings suitable for all teeth?
Composite fillings are versatile and can be used to repair cavities in both front and back teeth. They are an excellent option for individuals seeking a more aesthetic alternative to traditional silver fillings.
How long do composite fillings last?
The lifespan of composite fillings can vary depending on factors such as the size and location of the filling, oral hygiene practices, and dietary habits. With proper care, composite fillings can last for many years before requiring replacement. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for monitoring the condition of fillings and maintaining optimal oral health.
Schedule Your Composite Tooth Filling at Restoration Dental
If you can’t remember the last time you had a routine dental exam and cleaning, don’t wait another day to schedule yours with Restoration Dental. Our trusted team can help you protect the beauty, comfort, and well-being of your smile with a quick, easy check-up. If the dentist diagnoses you with a cavity, we will ensure that the health of your smile is restored as comfortably as possible. Contact us today. We look forward to helping you maintain a strong, radiant smile for life!