Composite Fillings
 Cavities are one of the most common dental issues there are. Even though they are usually associated with children, the truth is that anyone, no matter how young or old, is susceptible to the development of tooth decay and cavities. A cavity forms as a result of tooth decay, which occurs when acids from plaque and bacteria can erode the protective enamel layer of your teeth. The erosion gives way to small pits, or cavities. At Palani Center for Dental Implants, we can provide treatment for cavities with composite fillings.Why Do Cavities Need Treatment?When a cavity forms treatment is needed right away. Without treatment, cavities may continue to grow larger and deeper. This can compromise the structural integrity of the tooth as well as lead to a painful tooth infection. If these issues occur, treatments like a crown, a root canal, or even a tooth extraction may be necessary. A filling is a much more conservative, and much less invasive, treatment. Composite FillingsTraditionally, cavities have been treated using amalgam fillings. Amalgam is a mixture of metals that are suspended in mercury. Despite being incredibly strong, and able to withstand the chewing forces of your back teeth, amalgam fillings have several disadvantages. One of the biggest drawbacks to an amalgam filling is that it is silver. This means that it is very visible on your teeth, standing out against the natural whiteness of your tooth enamel. This can cause aesthetic issues, especially if placed in teeth visible in your smile. Amalgam fillings also raise concerns due to their ingredients. Some patients are allergic to metal. Others express concerns over the mercury content. Composite fillings are an alternative to amalgam. These fillings use composite resin, which is a mixture of fine glass, plastic, and other materials. While not as strong as amalgam, the greatest benefit of composite fillings is that they perfectly match the color of your natural tooth enamel. Once cured in the tooth, no one will be able to tell that the filling is there. This makes composite fillings perfect for treating cavities in visible teeth. Why Composite Fillings?Composite fillings provide several significant benefits:
How is a Composite Filling Placed?The process for getting composite fillings is fairly straightforward and simple. Because less of your natural tooth structure needs to be removed, you may not require a local anesthetic. We begin by cleaning the tooth and drilling decay from the cavity. Acid etch is applied to the cavity, which creates a rough texture. This is done to enhance the bond between the composite resin and your tooth enamel. The acid etch is washed off, and your tooth is dried. Next, the composite resin material is placed inside the cavity, and it is cured using a specialized light. Once cured, the filling is polished smooth. Composite fillings provide an effective treatment for cavities that not only restore the health of your mouth but also help to restore the appearance of your smile as well. Call Palani Center for Dental Implants today at (310) 894-8337 to learn more and schedule your appointment. |
 |
