Benefits of White Composite Resin Fillings
A dental filling is important to treat decay or trauma and restore a tooth that has been damaged or weakened; composite fillings offer some advantages over older amalgam fillings that some patients may be familiar with.
Virtually Invisible Restorations
White composite resin fillings are tooth coloured and carefully matched to your natural tooth. Unlike traditional amalgam fillings, which are dark and noticeable, composite fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Durable and Long-lasting
Composite fillings are durable and last many years. Although they may not possess the same level of compressive strength as amalgam, they can still withstand normal biting pressures easily. Moreover, because they bond securely to the tooth, composite fillings strengthen a tooth more and reduce the risk of fractures.
Versatile
Composite fillings are versatile. Because the composite resin can be moulded, it can be used for even very small cavities or fissures as well as large cavities, and can repair various dental issues, such as chipped, broken, or worn teeth.
Minimally Invasive
Composite fillings require minimal tooth preparation, so more of your natural tooth structure can be preserved.
Treat Cavities Early
If you've been diagnosed with a cavity, it might be tempting to postpone the filling procedure, especially if it isn't bothering you too much yet. However, it's crucial to address it promptly. Filling a cavity at an early stage prevents it from growing and spreading deeper into the tooth. While tiny cavities may not hurt, they can be very painful as they progress, so delaying treatment may put you in a very uncomfortable situation later. Untreated dental decay can also lead to infections and abscesses that require more complex and costly treatment. Furthermore, cavities weaken teeth, making them susceptible to further damage or even tooth loss, and allowing them to progress increases the risks of more damage.
Dental Filling Procedure
While dental anxiety may cause some patients to delay seeking treatment, the procedure causes minimal discomfort and delaying treatment is more likely to lead to severe pain and complications down the road. Let us know if you are anxious, and we can help put you at ease. Below is an idea of what to expect during your visit.
Dental Filling Services Consultation
Our dentist will start with a consultation to evaluate your specific needs. We'll also determine the best colour match for the tooth-coloured composite resin material to use for the composite fillings, ensuring a seamless blend with your natural teeth.
Composite Filling Process
Before the procedure begins, our Kitchener dentist will use an anaesthetic, as necessary, such as when decay needs to be removed.
Decayed or damaged portions of the tooth will be removed, although as much healthy tooth structure as possible will be preserved.
An adhesive gel is applied to prepare the tooth for the composite filling. Layers of the composite material are then carefully layered and moulded onto the tooth to provide a good fit and shape.
Curing and Polishing
The composite filling material is then cured using an LED light. Once cured, our dentist checks the finished tooth again, making any necessary adjustments. Next, the tooth is polished for an aesthetic finish.