When Are Composite Fillings Needed?
July 14, 2022 9:56 pmCavities are one of the most common dental issues that we see. Unless the cavity is severe and associated with infection, we can handle it quickly and easily with a treatment called a dental filling. Silver fillings were common many years ago, but nowadays many dentists prefer to use composite fillings since they are tooth-colored, as well as non-toxic.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
A “tooth-colored filling” is the same thing as a composite filling. Composite fillings get their name because they’re made from a variety of different materials, including silica and resin. They’re designed to match the color of natural teeth, which means they blend in seamlessly with your smile.
It’s nearly impossible to even tell where a composite filling is unless you are a trained dental professional closely examining someone’s mouth! Anyone who is concerned about the aesthetics of their smile will most likely want to get an inconspicuous composite filling instead of a silver filling.
Composite fillings have an average lifespan of 7-15 years depending on how well you take care of your teeth. At your checkups, your dentist will evaluate the integrity of any fillings you have to determine if they need to be replaced.
When to Get a Composite Filling
A composite filling can repair a tooth with a chip, break, or cavity. Fillings can restore chipped teeth to their original shape and bond small breaks back together. If you have a cavity, the damaged material is removed and then the hole can literally be filled with a composite filling. This prevents bacteria from getting in and further compromising your tooth.
Restorative Dentistry at Bellevue Dental Oasis
Bellevue Dental Oasis provides comprehensive dental care, including dental fillings, at our comfortable office in Bellevue. We treat each of our patients with respect and compassion, and strive to help them feel valued. Please contact us today to set up an appointment with our team!
Categorised in: Restorative Dentistry