Natural-Looking Composite Dental Fillings Help Conserve Teeth after Cavity Treatment
Composite fillings placed at our Ridgewood, NJ, practice restore teeth after they have suffered from cavities and decay. We use tooth-colored composite resin, also known as a white filling, to restore your tooth and protect your smile from future damage. Compared to traditional metal fillings, white fillings require less alteration of the tooth, contain no toxins, and achieve a more secure bond with the tooth. At Ridgewood Dental Associates, your dentist will match the resin to the color of your teeth for a natural-looking restoration that can last for years.
When Is a Dental Filling is Necessary?
Tooth decay is common, and in the earliest stages, it is easily treatable. Some of the more common side effects of a damaged or decayed tooth include:
- Toothache with sharp, dull, throbbing, or radiating pain
- Visible pitting or holes
- Dark brown or black spots in enamel
- Tooth sensitivity, especially when eating something hot, color, or sugary
For minor to moderate cases, we prefer to use tooth-colored composite resin to restore the natural shape and function of your tooth, and prevent further decay from developing. However, if left untreated, you may require more extensive procedures, such as root canal therapy to remove infection and a dental crown to rebuild your tooth.
Placing a Dental Filling
Digital x-rays of your smile can reveal any cavities. Treating the cavity begins with one of our dentists gently removing the decayed tissue. We can provide any necessary anesthesia and sedation to ensure your comfort. After the tooth has been thoroughly cleaned, your dentist will use a shade guide to match the resin to the natural color of your teeth. They will then place the resin in layers, hardening each layer with a special curing light. Once your filling is complete, we will ensure it does not interfere with your bite, and will polish it for a lifelike feel and appearance.
We can provide cavity treatment that benefits both the health and appearance of your smile.
Benefits
Metal fillings are effective, but because they contrast with the color of the tooth, they can actually make healthy teeth look decayed. In comparison, white fillings, match your tooth to maintain aesthetics. In addition, white fillings achieve a better bond with your tooth and do not fluctuate with temperature. White fillings are also non-toxic. Metal fillings contain trace amounts of mercury, and although this has never been found to be detrimental to health, most patients would prefer a no-mercury or -metal solution.
Learn More
If you are experiencing dental sensitivity or a toothache, contact our office online or by phone at (201) 652-2474 today to schedule an appointment with one of our trusted doctors. We can provide cavity treatment that benefits both the health and appearance of your smile.
