02
Sep
Composite Dental Fillings Explained: Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Many years ago, cavities were filled with silver amalgam fillings. However, thanks to advances in modern dentistry, tooth-colored composite resin fillings can now be used to fix cavities and preserve the natural beauty of your teeth.
What Is a Composite Resin Dental Filling?
White fillings are created using a special acrylic resin material. This resin comes from glass filler that has been ground to a powder form. Composite resin looks nearly identical to your natural tooth and blends beautifully into your smile.
What Are the Benefits of Composite Dental Fillings?
We’ve already established that composite fillings make your smile more attractive. However, there are other advantages as well, including:
- Affordability: Composite fillings are more affordable than solutions like inlays, crowns, or onlays.
- Strength: Because they are bonded directly to the affected tooth, white fillings are tough enough to support the natural structure of your teeth.
- One-visit placement: You don’t need to make multiple visits to the dentist for a composite resin filling. Your dentist will place your fillings during your first visit.
Are Composite Dental Fillings Durable?
The composite resin material is incredibly strong and bonds directly to tooth enamel. Metal fillings can cause teeth to crack and become brittle.
Are Composite Resin Fillings Safe?
Some older metal fillings contain mercury, which can cause health problems in some cases. Composite fillings do not contain metal, so they’re much safer than old-school silver fillings.
How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?
Patients with good oral health may have them for ten or more years, depending on a multitude of factors.
How Can I Make My Composite Fillings Last Longer?
Practicing good oral care at home is the most important thing you can do to keep your fillings healthy. This includes brushing twice daily and flossing at night before bed. It’s also important to visit your dentist regularly. Most dentists recommend two annual checkups unless you have dental problems that need immediate attention.
What Foods Should I Avoid After Composite Fillings?
For about a day after you get your filling, you should eat soft foods. Also, consider avoiding foods and beverages that are extremely hot or cold.
For the long term, avoiding foods that can stain your teeth will help preserve the natural beauty of your fillings. All of these can stain your teeth:
- Red wine
- Coffee
- Dark soda
- Tea
- Foods with artificial dyes
To prevent damage to your fillings, Dr. Gradinger recommends that patients avoid eating very hard foods such as hard candy.
Where Can I Get a Composite Dental Filling in Valencia, California?
If you have tooth decay and need a white filling for a cavity, Dr. Brian Gradinger DMD in Valencia, California, can restore your smile with composite fillings. Call us today at (661) 287-9650 to schedule your appointment.