Composite Fillings
Cavities, minor chips, and small areas of tooth damage can affect both the strength and appearance of your teeth. Composite fillings help restore damaged areas using tooth-colored material that blends with your natural smile. At Gallery Dental Care, we focus on preserving your natural teeth while helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are dental restorations made from a tooth-colored resin material. They are used to repair teeth affected by cavities, minor fractures, or other small areas of damage.
Unlike traditional silver-colored amalgam fillings, composite fillings can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth, making them a discreet option for restoring your smile.
When Might You Need a Composite Filling?
While treating the Tooth/Teeth Decay
When bacteria cause a cavity, your dentist removes the decayed portion of the tooth and fills the space to restore its shape and function.
Repairing Minor Chips and Cracks
Composite resin can help rebuild small chipped areas and repair certain minor fractures, depending on the extent of the damage.
Replacing Worn or Damaged Fillings
If an existing filling becomes worn, damaged, or develops problems, your dentist may recommend replacing it with a suitable restoration.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Composite fillings are often completed in a single appointment. Your dentist first examines the tooth and removes any decay or damaged tissue. The tooth surface is then prepared, and the composite resin is applied in layers.
A special curing light hardens the material, after which your dentist shapes and polishes the filling to restore the tooth’s natural contours and comfortable bite.
Local anesthesia may be used when needed to keep you comfortable during treatment.
How Do You Care for Composite Fillings?
With proper care, composite fillings can last for many years, although their lifespan depends on the size and location of the filling and your oral habits. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and attend routine dental checkups. Avoid biting hard objects, and contact your dentist if you notice discomfort, rough edges, or damage to a filling.
Restore Your Tooth with Confidence
Treating cavities and minor tooth damage early can help prevent more extensive problems. At Gallery Dental Care, our team can assess your tooth and determine whether a composite filling is the right option for restoring its function and appearance.