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 Kiro Dental among the most aesthetic restorations available today, but they are strong and long-lasting as well.
Dental fillings — the best solution for tooth restoration
At Kiro Dental, we rely on high-quality materials, the 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 do I know if I need 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. When you come in for an evaluation, Dr. Vegulla directs you to the appropriate dental treatment for your situation. We typically recommend fillings as the best solution for restoring teeth that have severe tooth decay, cracks, chips and cavities.
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.
- Brush after meals and use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
- Drink more water and cut back on sugary and acidic drinks.
- Develop the habit of flossing every night.
- Avoid smoking.
Dental fillings — the process
The procedure for placing a composite resin dental filling is a routine treatment that we do every day at Kiro Dental. Here’s how it works:
- Dr. Vegulla isolates the tooth from saliva to keep it dry.
- Any dental decay is removed.
- An etchant and a bonding agent are applied, followed by the composite resin.
- A special light is used to harden each layer of composite resin material.
- After the tooth is filled, the composite resin is shaped to resemble a real tooth.
- Finally, the restoration is smoothed and polished to accommodate your bite.
What’s the difference between a filling and an inlay/onlay?
A filling restores normal tooth anatomy when decay or trauma has created a cavity. When we create a filling from composite resin, we shade the material so that it blends naturally with your surrounding tooth structure.
Inlays and onlays are used when the damage or decay to a tooth requires more than a filling—but less than a crown. Made of porcelain, an inlay is crafted at a dental lab and cemented into the center of the tooth; an onlay covers the top chewing surface. We use porcelain because it closely mimics enamel and offers decades of strength and security.
What are composite resin fillings and restorations?
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 is placed in layers to build up the final restoration, then cured with a special light. The shade can be customized to closely match surrounding teeth.
- Preferred natural-looking color
- Better for smaller fillings
- Preservation of more tooth structure
Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contains fluoride, it can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, another advantage that reinforces gum health.
What’s wrong with metal/amalgam fillings?
In addition to being more aesthetically pleasing, composite fillings are completely safe and non-toxic. The American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs has concluded that both amalgam and composite materials are considered safe and effective for tooth restoration.
For more information about our dental fillings, call our office today! (925)248 2164