Composite dental fillings in Southaven, MS, provide a tooth-colored option for repairing cavities and minor tooth damage. The filling material blends with your natural teeth and bonds directly to the tooth structure, allowing for a more conservative restoration. Dr. M. A. Bleibel has completed more than 10,000 dental fillings, bringing extensive experience to restorative care for patients who need treatment for decay or damaged teeth.
Composite Dental Fillings Explained
A composite dental filling is a tooth-colored restoration used to repair teeth affected by cavities, chips or minor damage. The filling material is made from a blend of resin and fine particles that can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth.
Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, which can allow for a more conservative preparation compared with some other filling materials. After the filling is placed and shaped, it is hardened with a curing light and polished to blend with the surrounding tooth.
Composite fillings are commonly used for small to moderate cavities and for repairing minor chips or worn areas. When a tooth has more extensive damage, a dental crown may be recommended instead.
How Composite Fillings Can Help You
Composite dental fillings may help:
- Restore teeth affected by cavities with a natural-looking, tooth-colored material.
- Repair minor chips, cracks or worn areas on the teeth.
- Preserve more healthy tooth structure because the material bonds directly to the tooth.
- Provide a metal-free and mercury-free filling option.
- Blend with the surrounding tooth for a more natural appearance.
- Restore normal chewing function after decay or damage is removed.
The appropriate type of restoration depends on the size and location of the cavity, the amount of remaining tooth structure and other clinical factors. Your dentist will recommend the treatment that best fits your needs.
The Composite Filling Process
Treatment begins with an examination of the tooth. Digital X-rays may be used to evaluate the extent of decay and the condition of the surrounding tooth structure.
- Evaluation And Planning: Your dentist examines the tooth and determines whether a composite filling is appropriate based on the size and location of the cavity.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia may be used to numb the treatment area so you remain comfortable during the procedure.
- Decay Removal: The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is carefully removed.
- Tooth Preparation: The tooth surface is cleaned and treated with a bonding agent to help the composite material adhere.
- Layering The Composite: The filling material is placed in layers and shaped to restore the natural contour of the tooth.
- Curing: Each layer is hardened using a special curing light.
- Shaping And Polishing: The filling is adjusted for proper bite alignment and polished for a smooth, natural finish.
Dr. Bleibel has completed more than 10,000 dental fillings, bringing extensive experience to restorative treatment for cavities and minor tooth damage.
What To Expect Before And After Treatment
Before your appointment, our team will review your symptoms, dental history and any concerns you may have. Diagnostic imaging may be used to evaluate the tooth and surrounding structures.
During treatment, local anesthesia keeps the area numb so you should not feel pain while the cavity is being prepared and filled. You may notice pressure or vibration during the procedure.
After the filling is placed, you can generally eat and drink once the numbness wears off. Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure may occur for a few days and usually improves as the tooth adjusts. Contact the office if sensitivity persists, the bite feels uneven or you notice any other concerns.
Caring For Composite Dental Fillings
Good oral hygiene helps protect composite fillings and the surrounding tooth structure.
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day to clean between teeth and around restorations.
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candy or other very hard objects that could damage fillings.
- Limit sticky foods that can pull at restorations.
- Attend routine dental cleanings and exams so your fillings and overall oral health can be monitored.
- Tell your dentist if you grind or clench your teeth, because excessive bite forces can affect restorations.
With proper care, composite fillings can provide reliable function. Your dentist will monitor your fillings during routine visits and recommend replacement or additional treatment if needed.
When A Filling May Not Be Enough
Composite fillings work well for small to moderate areas of decay or damage. When a tooth has extensive decay, a large existing filling, cracks or significant structural weakness, a dental crown may be recommended to provide additional strength and protection. Your dentist will evaluate the tooth and explain which restoration is most appropriate for your situation.
FAQs About Composite Dental Fillings
Hours
