Composite Fillings

COMPOSITE FILLINGS

What You Should Know About Composite Fillings

Reasons for composite fillings:

What Steps Are Involved in Filling a Tooth?

The first step necessary in filling a tooth involves numbing the affected area, so the patient won’t feel any pain during the procedure. This numbing agent only takes a few minutes to become effective, and then the tooth-filling can begin. The dentist will then use a drill to remove the decayed part of the tooth, and rinse out all loose debris after the drilling. The hole in the tooth will then be filled, using whatever filling material has been chosen for the process. Lastly, the tooth will be polished and adjusted so that the patient’s bite is normal and feels comfortable.

How are composite fillings placed?

It is necessary to install a composite resin filling in layers, which are gradually built up until they completely fill the hole left by the cavity. Once the layers have been built up sufficiently, the dentist will generally use an ultraviolet light to rapidly cure the composite in place. As each layer is hardened by the ultraviolet light, the next layer can be installed on top of it. This process generally takes a bit longer than installing an amalgam filling, but the patient does receive a tooth-colored filling which looks more natural.

How Should I Care for My Teeth With Fillings?

Teeth which have been filled should be cared for with regular brushing and flossing, and an occasional rinsing with a good mouthwash. It’s best not to bite into hard foods like nuts and ice with your fillings, so they don’t get cracked under the pressure. You should also make a point of keeping each of your six-month appointments, so your dentist can determine that your fillings are still in place and performing well.

Schedule an Appointment in North Miami Beach Today!

If you think you may have a tooth cavity, by all means contact us right away at Mount Zion Dental in North Miami Beach. Dr. Maria Cook can quickly determine if that is the case, and if so, we can install a tooth filling to prevent any further damage. If you’re interested in receiving a composite filling, we can arrange that for you, so you can have the most natural-looking smile, while still achieving better oral health.