When you have a cavity in one or several teeth, your dentist will likely recommend a dental filling as soon as possible.
A filling prevents infection and repairs your tooth. Dentists use several restoration materials, with composite and amalgam fillings being the most common. Composite fillings have become increasingly popular due to their durability and natural appearance. At Washington Dental, we provide high-quality composite fillings in Carson, CA, at an affordable cost.
Understanding Composite Fillings
Most people require a tooth filling at some point in their lives. Teeth can become damaged due to accidents, erosion, cavities, or aging. Composite fillings offer a safe, long-lasting solution for restoring damaged teeth.
Compared to amalgam, composite fillings have a natural appearance and can be matched precisely to your tooth color. This material is made of acrylic resin reinforced with powdered glass. Composite resin is also used in veneers, crowns, inlays, and to repair chipped or fractured teeth.
Composite fillings serve the same purpose as conventional fillings: repairing cracks, decay, and structural defects. Your dentist will remove the decayed tooth structure and place the composite material to restore strength and appearance.
Composite Fillings Are Available In A Variety Of Materials
Composite fillings are available in several formulations designed to protect the teeth from damage or decay. Your dentist will review your options and help you select the best material for your needs. Their popularity comes from their ability to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Composite Fillings Are Not A Lifelong Solution
Composite fillings are durable, but not permanent. They can withstand normal chewing forces, but they do not last a lifetime. If a filling becomes loose, damaged, or falls out, it should be replaced promptly to prevent infection.
Although reliable, composite fillings generally have a shorter lifespan than amalgam fillings. Research from 2010 suggests an average lifespan of seven years, though they may last up to ten years with proper care. Longevity depends heavily on cavity risk and oral hygiene.
Whether Composite Fillings Are Safe
Some patients express concern about the possible cytotoxic effects of composite fillings. Research in 2012 indicated that darker shades of composite resin may require stronger curing lights, raising concerns about heat exposure. Additional studies recommend adherence to manufacturer instructions regarding curing time and technique.
If you have questions about material safety, your dentist can review specific ingredients and address any risks relevant to you.
The Advantages Of Composite Fillings
- Natural appearance: They resemble natural teeth.
- Durability: They provide strong, reliable function.
- Convenience: Treatment is typically completed in one visit.
- Fracture resistance: They offer strong bonding to tooth structure.
- Versatility: They repair both minor and more extensive damage.
- Minimal sensitivity: Patients usually experience short-term temperature sensitivity.
The Disadvantages Of Composite Fillings
- Shorter lifespan than amalgam.
- Longer application time due to multi-layer placement.
- Higher cost compared to silver amalgam.
- Moisture control required during placement.
Composite Dental Filling Procedure
Composite fillings are typically completed in a single appointment.
- Shade selection: Your dentist selects the composite color before treatment.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthetic may be used.
- Decay removal: The decayed portion is removed using a dental drill.
- Tooth preparation: The tooth is cleaned and prepared for bonding.
- Etching and bonding: The tooth surface is conditioned for adhesion.
- Layering: Composite material is applied in layers and cured with a special light.
- Shaping: The filling is shaped, contoured, and polished.
- Bite check: Your bite is evaluated and adjusted for comfort.
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may occur temporarily but typically resolves quickly.
Composite Fillings Aftercare
Composite fillings require minimal aftercare and typically last five to ten years, depending on lifestyle and oral hygiene. Because composite material can stain, patients should be mindful of their diet and habits.
Immediate Instructions
- Avoid hot beverages: Prevent discomfort while numb.
- Avoid chewing: Wait until the numbness fades.
- Use mild pain relievers: These help reduce discomfort.
Long-Term Care
Soft foods may help reduce discomfort after treatment. Avoid very hot or cold items to minimize sensitivity. Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods should be consumed carefully to avoid damage.
Foods and beverages that may stain composite fillings include:
- Red wine.
- Tea, coffee, and dark sodas.
- Artificial dyes.
- Berries and beets.
- Balsamic vinegar.
Tobacco use can also stain composite fillings. Whitening products do not work on composite resin, so stained fillings may require replacement.
Practice daily brushing and flossing. A soft-bristled brush is recommended while the area is tender. Warm salt water can help relieve discomfort. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash, as it may weaken the composite material. Visit your dentist every six months for routine cleanings and examinations.
Excess pressure can damage composite fillings. Avoid chewing ice or other non-food items. Bruxism can also weaken fillings; if you grind your teeth, seek treatment or use a night guard.
Sensitivity After Composite Fillings
Sensitivity after treatment is common and typically resolves within weeks. Sensitivity may present as:
- Tender gums.
- Pain when consuming cold or hot foods.
- Discomfort when biting.
- Pain around the filling.
- Pulpitis: Heat from drilling or incomplete decay removal may inflame the pulp.
- Multiple materials: Interactions between composite and a gold restoration can create sensations.
- Bite issues: A high filling may cause discomfort.
- Referred pain: Pain may be felt in surrounding teeth.
- Allergic reaction: Rare sensitivity to materials may occur.
- Use anti-inflammatory medication.
- Avoid very hot, cold, or acidic foods.
- Use desensitizing toothpaste.
- Chew on the opposite side.
If bite problems occur, your dentist can adjust the filling. Sensitivity that lasts beyond two to four weeks may require evaluation and could indicate the need for root canal therapy.
Signs That Your Composite Fillings Need Replacement
Composite fillings can become damaged or loose due to wear, bruxism, trauma, or aging. Common signs include:
- Cracked filling: A visible or x-ray-detected crack requires immediate replacement.
- Discomfort when eating: Pressure or trapped food may indicate a loose filling.
- Sensitivity: Cracks may expose the inner tooth structure.
- Discoloration: Stains may appear over time.
- Injury: Trauma can loosen or dislodge fillings.
- Age of filling: Fillings older than five to ten years may need replacement.
Alternatives To Composite Fillings
- Amalgam fillings: Durable and long-lasting but not tooth-colored.
- Gold fillings: Very durable but costly and require multiple visits.
- Glass ionomer: Tooth-colored and fluoride-releasing but less durable.
- Ceramic fillings: Long-lasting and aesthetic, but more expensive.
Find An Experienced Dentist Near Me
If you have dental cavities or damaged teeth, composite fillings may be an excellent solution. At Washington Dental, we provide high-quality composite fillings for patients throughout Carson, CA. Our dentists are experienced, detail-oriented, and dedicated to restoring healthy, confident smiles. We use top-tier materials to ensure lasting results. Contact our team today to schedule your consultation.