Composite Tooth Fillings are a safe way to restore Oral Health

If you need a dental filling, composite resin fillings are a safe, conservative way of restoring health and function to the smile. While no one wants to get a filling, it’s important for dental cavities to be treated as early as possible to prevent damaging infections. At Abel, Phan & Associates in Potomac Falls, Virginia, your smile is our passion which is why we are very careful with the materials we utilize in all our services. In addition to being safe, composite resin fillings are an attractive option because they blend in seamlessly with the color of your natural tooth enamel. Below, we’ll take a deeper look into the advantages of composite dental fillings along with the procedure itself.

Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings which are made of a mixture of metals, were the standard of care for many years in dentistry. These fillings, while strong, pose a series of potential risks. One risk with amalgam fillings is the need for more drilling of the natural tooth structure for the material to adhere properly. Another risk is amalgam’s tendency to expand and contract to temperature changes which can cause cracks in the tooth structure. On the other hand, composite resin fillings are a conservative treatment option, offering the following benefits:

• Less drilling – with composite fillings, we can leave more of the natural tooth structure intact
• Strengthens the tooth – composite resin bonds directly with the tooth to strengthen the overall structure
• Quick procedure – a special UV light is used to harden the bonding agent to the tooth almost immediately
• Versatile – in addition to fillings, composite resin can be used in the dental bonding procedure to fix chips or cracks in the tooth
• Reduces tooth sensitivity – composite resin insulates the inside of the tooth from changes in temperature, which cuts down sensitivity

The dental filling procedure

When a tooth has a cavity, we first need to remove the decayed parts of the tooth. Under local anesthetic, the dentist will carefully drill out the decayed matter. Next, the color-matched composite resin material is molded into the tooth to match its natural shape. A special light is used to harden the material, and then it is polished to feel natural. When complete, you should not be able to see or feel the filling within your tooth.

How long do fillings last?

Composite resin fillings can last as long as 15 years or even longer with good oral hygiene. To improve the longevity of the filling it’s important to brush and floss regularly and visit our Potomac Falls office every six months for routine preventative care. Good oral hygiene will also prevent the occurrence of other cavities in the future.

Your trusted provider for conservative dental care in Potomac Falls

At Abel, Phan & Associates, we are your partners in dental health and wellness. With our comprehensive array of preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental services, we can provide safe and effective methods for keeping your smile beautiful and healthy. If you think you may need a filling or simply wish to schedule a consultation at our office, please give us a call at (571) 450-9848.

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