Composite Dental Fillings

Enjoy a more natural smile with composite dental fillings 

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic health conditions. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent it, and in cases where decay is unavoidable, a dental filling is an affordable, natural-looking, and safe solution. Not only are our fillings at Hilgers Pediatric Dentistry some of the most aesthetic restorations available today, but they are strong and long-lasting as well. 

What are composite resin fillings and restorations? How long do composite fillings last?

Composite resin fillings are the most common alternative to dental amalgam. They are sometimes called “tooth-colored” or “white” fillings because of their color. Composite resin fillings are made of a type of plastic (an acrylic resin) reinforced with powdered glass filler. Composite resin is often placed in layers to build up the final restoration, then cured with a special light. This light energy speeds up a chemical reaction of the components causing the soft material to harden and bond to the tooth. This material is considered safe. All of our materials are also BPA free. The color (shade) of composite resins can be customized to closely match surrounding teeth. This plastic and glass mixture contains no metal and can be shaped to resemble a real tooth. It is usually hard to tell that a tooth has even been filled! 

Composite resin fillings have several advantages. The “white” color is preferred by many patients due to its ability to blend in with surrounding teeth. It is also possible to make a more conservative preparations when using composite material, thus enabling the dentist to preserve more natural tooth structure. 

• Benefits of Composite Resin Restorations 

• Preferred white/natural-looking color 

• Better for smaller fillings 

• Preservation of more tooth structure 

Composite Dental fillings- The process

The procedure for placing a composite resin dental filling is a routine treatment at Hilgers Pediatric Dentistry. Here’s how it works: 

1. We isolate the tooth from saliva to keep it dry. 
2. Any dental decay is removed. 
3. An etchant and a bonding agent are applied, followed by the composite resin. 
4. A special light is used to harden each layer of composite resin material. 
5. After the tooth is filled, the composite resin is shaped to resemble a real tooth. 
6. Finally, the restoration is smoothed and polished to accommodate your bite. 

Cavity prevention — What can I do to prevent the need for a filling? 

The best way to fight cavities and maintain healthy gums and teeth is to keep up on your daily habit of proper oral hygiene. Here are 5 ways to ward off tooth decay and prevent cavities: 

• Come in to our office for a comprehensive oral exam and regular cleanings every 6 months (more frequently if high cavity risk). 

• Brush after meals and use an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash (assist your child in this through age 9). 

• Drink more water and cut back on sugary and acidic drinks. 

• Develop the habit of flossing every night. 

Composite Dental fillings—The best solution for tooth restoration 

At Hilgers Pediatric Dentistry, we rely on high-quality materials, latest technology, and advanced techniques to create restorations for our patients that last a lifetime. Our goal is to create results that are designed to be virtually undetectable. We use tooth-colored fillings as restorations when our patients have: 

• Tooth decay 

• Chipped teeth 

• Cracked teeth 

How to know if your child needs a filling?

If you are experiencing discomfort in your teeth, you may be a good candidate for a filling. Teeth sensitivity is an effective indicator of decay or fracture but the severity must be properly assessed by a dentist through visual and radiographic exam. When you come in for an evaluation, our doctors will direct you to the appropriate dental treatment for your child’s situation.