Tooth decay, even in a very small area should never be ignored. If not addressed, that area of decay could become a cavity, or lead to an infection, that may require a root canal or even an extraction. Dr. Kathy Daroee believes that when it comes to the health of your smile, style and comfort can come together to create fantastic results. Our dentist uses composite fillings in Woodland Hills, California, as a healthy and aesthetically pleasing way to repair tooth decay or damage.
Composite fillings are preferred by many patients and dentists over the traditional amalgam fillings for two reasons. They contain no mercury, which has become a concern for many people over the years. But the primary reason for their popularity is because they can be shaded to blend in with your natural tooth, making them almost invisible to other people. The composite material is placed in layers and each layer is cured before the next one is added. The composite bonds directly to the surface your tooth and form a strong seal around the edges. Since it is applied in liquid form it fills the area and requires less drilling than needed for amalgam fillings. If you need a larger filling in the future, Dr. Daroee can simply add more layers of composite.
If you think that you may be dealing with tooth decay, call 818-347-1550 today to schedule your to Kathy Cosmetic Dentistry.
Composite Dental Fillings FAQ
What are composite dental fillings?
Composite fillings are a type of restorative treatment used to repair minor tooth damage, such as that caused by cavities or by small cracks. They are made of tooth-colored resin material and carefully selected to blend in with your natural teeth to give you a more aesthetic final result.
Are composite fillings better than amalgam fillings?
Both composite fillings and amalgam fillings will restore the health and function of your teeth. However, composite fillings produce a more natural-looking result and promote better long-term oral health. Composite fillings can also treat damaged areas that are too small for amalgam fillings to repair. Please speak with Dr. Daroee for more details about the different types of filling materials prior to your treatment.
Why should I choose a composite filling?
There are many immediate and long-term benefits to composite fillings, including:
- A material that bonds to your tooth and provides more support for the tooth’s structural integrity
- Reduced risk of the treated tooth fracturing in the future
- Greater insulation from temperature changes in the mouth, such as those caused by hot or cold foods and drinks
- An increased resistance to decay and leaks thanks to better seals around the edges of the treated area
- A filling material that can be repaired and replaced without being removed from the tooth
In addition, no mercury or other metals are used, making your treatment process, and the filling itself, safer.