Composite Fillings
At Charles Ortegon, DMD, composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored or white fillings, are dental restorations used to repair teeth affected by decay, cracks, or fractures. Unlike traditional silver amalgam fillings, composite fillings are made from a mixture of plastic resin and finely ground glass particles, closely resembling the tooth's natural color.
This aesthetic advantage makes composite fillings a popular choice for visible areas of the mouth. The material is applied in layers, hardened with a special light, and then shaped to match the contours of the tooth, providing a durable and cosmetically pleasing solution for restoring the integrity of the affected tooth.
The Benefits of Composite Fillings
- Composite fillings in Trenton, NJ, are tooth-colored, blending in seamlessly with natural tooth enamel. This aesthetic advantage makes them ideal for visible areas, providing a discreet restoration.
- Unlike traditional amalgam fillings, composite fillings require the removal of less healthy tooth structure during preparation. This conservative approach helps preserve more of the natural tooth.
- Composite resin can be precisely matched to the shade of the surrounding teeth, ensuring a customized and natural appearance. This versatility makes them suitable for both front and back teeth.
- Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings do not contain mercury. This makes them a mercury-free alternative for individuals who prefer to avoid this metal in dental restorations.
- Composite resin bonds well with the tooth enamel, providing structural support and helping to prevent fractures or cracks in the restored tooth.
The Composite Fillings Procedure
The procedure for composite fillings is a meticulous process that aims to restore the structure and function of a tooth affected by decay or damage. Our dentist in Trenton, NJ, begins the procedure by administering a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring a pain-free experience for the patient. Once the tooth is numb, the decayed or damaged portion is carefully removed using a dental drill.
After preparing the tooth, the dentist applies an adhesive gel to facilitate the bonding of the composite material. The composite, a mixture of plastic resin and glass particles, is then precisely layered onto the tooth, with each layer being hardened using a special curing light. This incremental layering process allows the dentist to sculpt the filling to match the natural contours of the tooth.
Once the composite is in place and shaped, the dentist polishes it to ensure a smooth surface that blends in with the surrounding teeth. The result is a durable, tooth-colored restoration that restores the tooth's functionality and enhances its aesthetic appeal. The entire procedure is typically completed in a single visit, making composite fillings a convenient and effective solution for dental restoration.
Composite fillings seamlessly blend in with natural teeth, offering an aesthetic solution for cavities and damage. Visit Charles Ortegon, DMD, at 637 Greenwood Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08609, or call (609) 396-3323 to learn more about the aesthetic and functional benefits of composite fillings.