Composite Fillings In Encinitas
Cracks and decay appear slowly in your teeth, but when left untreated can leave untold damage on your smile. You need a solution that fills in those cracks and pits effectively, and composite tooth-colored fillings are the answer. No more messing with risky silver amalgam fillings, which have become widely used. Composite fillings are more subtle and healthier for your smile.
What Is A Composite Filling?
A composite filling is made of powdered glass and acrylic resin, and can be designed to match the shade of your teeth perfectly. It’s a preferable alternative to amalgam fillings, as composite ones blend in seamlessly with your smile. These types of fillings are preferable for patients who want the natural appearance.
Benefits Of Fillings
- Natural Appearance: The composite resin is tooth-colored, blending in as naturally as your live enamel.
- Completed In One Visit: These fillings don’t require multiple visits, but can be completed quickly in one visit to our office.
- Bond Directly To Tooth: Composite fillings are heat-cured after placement, making it bond stronger to the tooth.
- Less Invasive Surgery: Silver amalgam fillings would need drilling and shaping to fit it, but a composite filling can be placed with limited drilling or preparation.
- Strength: Composite resin has the same strength and durability as silver fillings.
Composite Fillings And Root Canals
When tooth decay has caused damage all the way to sensitive pulp of the tooth, a root canal is absolutely necessary to clear away diseased tissue and save the tooth. Once a root canal is complete, a composite filling is placed inside to seal the tooth. Typically a crown is placed on top to protect the tooth as well, but a filling is necessary to keep the tooth strong.
The Root Canal Process
- The first step is to clear away the diseased tissue in the center of the tooth.
- Once removed, the tooth is sealed with the composite resin. This retains the tooth’s shape and prevents it from collapsing.
- A crown is placed over the tooth to protect it. It’s normal to experience some soreness and sensitivity after the treatment, but these subside after a few days.
Prevention Is The Best Medicine
The best defense for your smile begins at home with proper oral hygiene care. With the correct techniques and tools, you can avoid dental problems and the need for fillings altogether.
- Brush Twice A Day: Brush at least twice a day, gently and in circular motions. Be sure to reach the gums, especially where plaque can easily build up.
- Floss: Floss at least once a day, and be gentle when placing the floss in your gums. Use a C-motion to swipe up the food particles from the gums.
- Watch Out For Warning Signs: Plaque and tartar build-up are the prerequisites for tooth decay, so keeping an eye out for this yellow sticky build-up. Regular hygiene visits with Dr. Diane W. Sherman can also keep track of these changes in your oral health.
- Good Diet: Sugar and carbohydrate-heavy foods are fuel for the bacteria that cause cavities. By reducing these foods, you can prevent cavities from forming.
Can My Child Get Composite Fillings?
Yes, your child can get composite fillings to treat early tooth decay. By the time children are five to six years old, it’s become commonplace to get cavities. The sooner you bring your child to a pediatric dentist for treatment, the quicker your child can receive treatment and set them on a healthier path.
Contact Us To Get Quality Fillings
If you or your child are afflicted with tooth decay, the best fast-acting solution is composite fillings. Filling treatments clear away the diseased tissues, and seal the tooth with a resin that blends in seamlessly with your smile. Give us a call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Diane W. Sherman and discover how fillings can restore your smile.