Antioch Veneers and Implants

Composite Fillings

Fillings are used when treating a cavity in order to fill the hole where the decayed portion of your tooth will be removed. There are several options when choosing the material that will fill this hole including the most commonly used composite material.

 

A composite filling is also known as a tooth colored filling because the material is so closely matched to the natural shade of a patient’s tooth. These fillings are the most esthetically pleasing because of their ability to blend in with the natural color of your tooth. Composite fillings are able to provide good durability for small to medium cavities and are particularly well suited for treating front or highly visible teeth, however, they are not recommended for larger cavities on the back molars. The procedure typically involves removing less of a tooth than you would during an amalgam filling and is less invasive.

 

How it’s done

During your filling appointment, your Antioch dentist will first numb the area with a local anesthetic in order to relieve you of any pain or discomfort. He or she will remove any decayed portions after the site is sufficiently numb. Once the decayed portion is gone, a substance is applied to keep the pores of your teeth open for a stronger bond with the composite filling. The substance will be hardened and cured with a special light. The final step is applying the composite filling in thin layers to slowly form the complete filling. After the composite has hardened, the filling is smoothened and polished for comfort and convenience to your bite.