Restore Your Smile at Northwind Dental
If you have a cavity or tooth decay, composite dental fillings may be the solution you need to restore your smile. At Northwind Dental we offer composite dental fillings as a safe, effective, and natural-looking option for our patients.
Wasilla family dentist, Dr. Thayne Dawson, explains everything you need to know about composite dental fillings and why they’re one of the best options for repairing damaged teeth. To schedule your dental fillings appointment, contact our dental office today by calling (907) 373-2440.
What Are Composite Dental Fillings?
Composite dental fillings are used to restore decayed or damaged teeth. They’re made of a mixture of plastic and glass materials that bond to the tooth, creating a strong and durable restoration. Composite fillings are a popular choice for patients because they blend in with the natural color of the teeth, making them virtually invisible.
Composite fillings are used for various reasons, including:
- Restoring decayed teeth
- Repairing chipped or broken teeth
- Filling gaps or spaces between teeth (diastemas)
- Improving the aesthetics of a smile
The Benefits of Composite Dental Fillings
Composite dental fillings offer several benefits, including:
- Natural Appearance: Composite fillings are tooth-colored, making them a more aesthetically pleasing option than traditional metal fillings.
- Durability: Composite fillings are strong and durable, making them a long-lasting solution for tooth decay.
- Versatility: Composite fillings can repair a variety of dental issues, including cavities, cracks, and chips.
- Preservation of Tooth Structure: Composite fillings require less removal of the tooth structure than traditional metal fillings, preserving more of the natural tooth.
- Bonding: Composite fillings bond to the tooth, creating a tight seal that helps prevent future decay.
- Non-Toxic/Hypoallergenic: Unlike silver (amalgam) fillings, composite dental fillings don’t contain toxic mercury and are far less likely to cause allergic reactions.
Who Qualifies for Composite Dental Fillings?
Composite dental fillings are a suitable option for most patients with tooth decay or damage. However, some patients may not be good candidates for composite fillings, including those with:
- Extensive Tooth Decay: If the decay is too extensive, a dental crown or other restoration may be necessary.
- Teeth Grinding: Patients who grind their teeth may not be good candidates for composite fillings, as the material may wear down more quickly.
- Large Cavities: Large cavities may require a more extensive restoration, such as an inlay or onlay.
The Composite Dental Fillings Process
Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation, Dr. Dawson will examine your teeth and determine if composite fillings are the right solution for you. He’ll discuss the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have.
Design/Preparation
If you’ve been approved for composite dental fillings, we’ll design the composite filling to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Before the filling is applied, the tooth will be cleaned and prepared for the filling. Then, Dr. Dawson will remove any decayed or damaged tooth structure.
Placement
The composite filling material will be applied to the tooth in layers. Each layer will be hardened with a special light, so it cures instantly. Once the filling is complete, Dr. Dawson will shape and polish it to match the natural contours of your tooth.
Caring for Composite Dental Fillings
Caring for your composite dental fillings is essential to ensure their longevity. Here are some tips from Dr. Dawson to ensure your fillings stay strong:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent decay and maintain the health of your fillings.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Hard or sticky foods can damage your fillings and cause them to wear down more quickly.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your fillings and prevent further damage.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups can help detect any issues with your fillings before they become more serious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Composite fillings can last up to 10 years with proper care. However, this timeframe can also vary based on factors such as your dietary habits and whether or not you grind your teeth. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly to ensure your composite fillings last and have them replaced as needed.
Yes, composite fillings are safe and have been used for decades to restore teeth. In fact, they’re much less prone to causing problems than silver/amalgam fillings, which can cause staining of surrounding teeth, galvanic shock, and allergic reactions.
Most dental insurance plans cover composite fillings, but it’s best to check with your provider to determine your coverage. You can also talk to your dentist about in-house financing options to help reduce any costs.
No, the composite fillings process is not painful. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area before the procedure.
Call Northwind Dental for Lasting Composite Dental Fillings
If you are looking for a Wasilla, AK, family dentist who offers lasting, natural-looking composite dental fillings, look no further than Northwind Dental. Dr. Dawson and our team are committed to providing safe, effective, and natural-looking dental restorations, so our patients can smile with pride and without pain. Contact us today at (907) 373-2440 to schedule a consultation or click the button below, and learn more about composite dental fillings.