At Cornerstone Dentistry, we understand that tooth decay and cavities are common dental issues that can cause discomfort and affect your overall oral health. Our experienced team of dental professionals is committed to providing you with the best treatment options, including tooth fillings, to restore your teeth’s health and functionality.
What are tooth fillings, you might ask? Well, they are a common dental procedure used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. During the filling process, our skilled dentists will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then fill the space with a durable material, such as composite resin or amalgam. This not only prevents further decay but also restores the tooth’s natural shape and function.
Fillings are typically made of different materials, including amalgam (a mixture of metals such as silver, mercury, tin, and copper), composite resin (a tooth-colored material), gold, or porcelain. The choice of material depends on various factors, such as the size and location of the cavity, the patient’s preference, and the dentist’s recommendation.
When a tooth is damaged, a filling is placed to restore its form and function. We help patients at Cornerstone Dentistry chew and speak normally while restoring the tooth’s strength and health.
To prevent the need for more significant dental work down the road, it is crucial to get regular dental checkups and fill any cavities as soon as possible. We would appreciate you calling us as quickly as possible so we can be ready for your visit.
Types of Tooth Fillings
Composite Fillings
Composite or “white fillings” are an alternative to silver amalgam restorations. These composite resin fillings are made to look much like your natural teeth, making your smile look far better than it would with silver amalgam fillings.
The decayed area of the tooth is first removed, then the composite material is applied in stages and hardened with a laser. Composite fillings can be utilized on both the front and back teeth, are long-lasting, and have a wide range of applications. They’re a great option for fixing cavities without compromising the look of your smile.
How long do composite dental fillings last?
Composite dental fillings have a lifespan that may be affected by the patient’s size and location of the filling, as well as their oral hygiene routine, diet, and general oral health. Composite fillings have a typical lifespan of 5-10 years. However, diligent maintenance and routine dental exams may extend their useful lifespan even further.
Composite fillings last a long time and can withstand the stresses of chewing and biting. They are glued directly to the teeth, making them secure and strong. On the downside, they may show wear and discoloration more quickly than other filling materials like amalgam and gold.
What is a composite dental filling made of?
A composite dental filling is made of a mixture of materials, primarily a resin matrix and fine glass particles known as filler. The resin matrix is typically composed of a blend of acrylic or methacrylate compounds, while the filler is commonly made of finely ground silica or quartz particles.
Composite fillings may include ingredients like initiators, stabilizers, colors, coupling agents, and the aforementioned major ingredients. These additives enhance the composite material’s workability, curing time, strength, and color stability.
Pricing
Composite fillings can range in price from one to several thousand dollars, depending on the number, size, and location of the affected teeth. The operation itself is also considered when determining the cost of a composite filling.
At Cornerstone Dentistry, we provide affordable dental care without sacrificing quality. To help you budget for your fillings, we accept various payment methods (cash, debit/credit cards, checks, financing, etc.) and provide convenient payment plans.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Composite Dental Fillings
Composite fillings are known for their durability and ability to resist staining over time. We can also be used to fix front teeth without the need for a crown. Some of the advantages and disadvantages of composite dental fillings include:
Advantages
- Aesthetics
- Versatility
- Bonding to Tooth Structure
- Preservation of Tooth Structure
- Reduced Sensitivity
Disadvantages
- Durability
- Cost
- Technique Sensitivity
- Vulnerability to Staining
- Limited Suitability for Large Restorations
It’s important to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of composite fillings with your dentist to determine the best treatment option based on your specific dental needs and preferences.
At Cornerstone Dentistry, we always use the highest quality materials and adhere to the best practices so that our patients can benefit from long-lasting results without compromising their safety.
Our experienced dentists will be happy to discuss the pros and cons of composite fillings with you before you decide. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal dental health and a beautiful, confident smile.