Composite Fillings
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A small cavity or chip can quickly turn into a big dental problem if not treated in time. At Thunderbird Dental Studio, our composite fillings in Peoria help restore your smile while keeping your teeth looking natural and healthy. Schedule your appointment today and protect your teeth with long-lasting, tooth-colored fillings.
Composite fillings consist of a tooth-colored resin composed of plastic and some additives. In some cases, there are also glass particles mixed with the plastic. Although mostly used for treating cavities, a composite filling can also improve a tooth’s cosmetic appearance, such as reshaping a tooth.
Composite fillings treat cavities to protect teeth and restore oral health. There are various types of fillings that dentists can use to fill a cavity. However, composite fillings are the most common type due to their natural appearance and good durability.
Other common types of fillings include gold, porcelain, and silver amalgam. Compared to composite fillings, metal fillings are significantly more visible in the mouth. While porcelain fillings are closer to the surrounding teeth in color, they can be quite costly. For many patients, composite fillings offer a balance of aesthetics, affordability, and durability.
If you have a tooth that requires a filling, composite fillings may be a good option. Composite fillings are available at Thunderbird Dental Studio in Peoria and the surrounding area.
COMPOSITE FILLINGS BENEFITS
If a patient has tooth decay, a composite filling may be the solution. According to one National Institute of Health survey, 92% of adults between ages 20 and 64 have tooth decay. There are various benefits of composite fillings, including:
Fix Decay and More
Composite fillings primarily fix tooth decay. They can also fix cracks, chips, and tooth wear. This helps to restore a tooth’s function and health.
Subtle Aesthetics
Composite fillings are very subtle. Our dentist can color-match the filling to the surrounding teeth. Many patients prefer this natural appearance.
Strong Bonding to Teeth
It can help to strengthen and support the remaining natural tooth. This filling provides support to prevent or slow the worsening of further tooth damage.
Minimal Drilling
Relative to other filling types, especially silver amalgam, composite filling requires little drilling. These fillings can fit into small cavity spaces.
COMPOSITE FILLING PROCEDURE
At Thunderbird Dental Studio, our dental filling procedure is designed to be comfortable, precise, and efficient. We use advanced tools and safe materials that comply with American Dental Association (ADA) standards to ensure your oral health stays in excellent shape. Here is what happens during your composite filling procedure:
Consultation and Examination
Your visit begins with a thorough dental exam. Our dentist checks for tooth decay, cavities, or chips using modern diagnostic tools. If a filling is needed, we will discuss the various types of filling material available and recommend composite resin fillings for a more natural look.
Local Anesthesia
Before the procedure begins, we will apply local anesthesia to numb the surrounding area. This ensures you will not feel any pain or discomfort during the filling placement. Many patients describe this step as quick and easy.
Removing Decay
Once the tooth is numb, we remove the decayed portion of the tooth using gentle dental instruments. The decay is carefully cleared to prevent further damage or infection, leaving a clean surface ready for restoration.
Cleaning and Preparation
Next, the cleaned cavity is prepared for the composite resin. We ensure the tooth is dry and free of debris so the filling material can bond properly. In some cases, a special solution is used to help the composite adhere better to the tooth structure.
Layering the Composite Resin
The composite resin mixture, made of plastic and glass, is placed into the hole left by the cavity. Our dentist applies it in thin layers. Each layer is hardened with a special light that helps the resin bond securely.
Shaping and Polishing
After the resin layers are set, the dentist carefully sculpts the filling to match your tooth’s natural shape and bite. Finally, the surface is polished until it feels smooth and looks just like your natural tooth.
Final Check
Before you leave, we will check your bite and ensure that everything feels comfortable. You will be able to eat, smile, and speak normally right after the appointment.
WHY CHOOSE US
Choosing the right dentist for composite fillings in Peoria makes all the difference. At Thunderbird Dental Studio, we focus on comfort, precision, and beautiful results. Our compassionate team uses advanced materials to ensure your tooth colored fillings blend perfectly with your natural teeth.
Our team has years of experience in performing filling placement with precision. We focus on keeping the tooth structure strong and maintaining your oral health.
We use digital imaging and precision tools to ensure accurate placement of composite resin fillings, minimizing pain and maximizing comfort.
Every patient’s mouth is different, and so is their treatment. We customize each procedure for the best fit and long-lasting results.
Our tooth colored fillings are designed to blend perfectly with your surrounding teeth, giving your smile a natural color and smooth finish.
COMPOSITE FILLINGS
What happens during filling placement?
Typically, we will number the area before removing any decayed or damaged tooth enamel with a drill or laser. Then, we will clean and dry the area. Our dentist may probe the treatment site to check for any missed decay. Finally, we fill the cavity with the patient’s filling material of choice.
What is the cost of getting a composite filling?
Composite fillings are usually more expensive than silver amalgam but less than gold or porcelain. Every insurance plan is different. People should make sure to contact their insurance provider to learn more about composite filling coverage before seeking treatment.
How can I care for my tooth-colored filling?
According to WebMD, good dental hygiene practices can help with filling care. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes, floss, and use mouthwash. Also, visit the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Are there any side effects of getting composite fillings?
Patients may experience some sensitivity or discomfort around the treatment area. However, these symptoms are normal and temporary. In rare cases, patients may have an allergic reaction to some filling types; however, this is uncommon with composites.
How do long do composite fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last an average of seven years. However, a study from the Journal of Dental Research found that they can last for ten or more years if the fillings are smaller and the patient has good oral health. Patients who take good care of their oral health and hygiene can lengthen their composite filling lifespan.
A healthy smile starts with strong, cavity-free teeth. If you have a cavity, chip, or tooth decay, the best solution may be a composite filling from Thunderbird Dental Studio. Our team will guide you through the procedure with comfort and care, helping you achieve a natural and aesthetically pleasing smile. Call us at (623) 933-6010 to schedule your appointment today and learn more about our composite fillings in Peoria, AZ.