Are Composite Fillings the Right Material for Me?

Different solutions are available to fix cavities, including composite fillings. Your dentist may also recommend ceramic or porcelain options, among others. However, there are advantages to composite material that others do not have. If you have tooth pain or other problems with your teeth, prompt treatment is necessary. Talking to your dentist can help you make the right decision for your oral health needs.

How cavities form and tooth damage occur

Under the right conditions, teeth should last a lifetime. They are made of enamel, the hardest substance in the body. Still, certain issues can damage or destroy a tooth. Often, this happens due to tooth decay, which is the result of poor brushing and flossing. Sugars and starches will stay on the teeth and turn into plaque and then tartar. These will attack the teeth, weakening the enamel and causing holes on the surface.

Injuries and accidents can also cause trauma. Chips, cracks, and fractures are possible when a person bites into something hard. A fall or a blow to the face can produce the same result. Composite fillings can treat these issues and relieve pain.

An overview of composite fillings

A composite filling is made of a hard plastic resin material. With it, the dentist can shape it to closely resemble a natural tooth. As with other fillings, the dentist will first numb the patient before drilling into the tooth. The dentist will remove the decay and clean out the tooth. After doing this, the dentist fills the space with the composite material. The dentist will then smooth and polish the tooth so that the patient has a comfortable bite.

Matching the color of the surrounding teeth

In years and decades past, dentists used metals to make fillings. These are durable and strong but are not aesthetically pleasing to a smile. However, composite fillings are a good choice for people who do not want the filling to stand out. It is virtually invisible because the dentist can make it the same color as the tooth. The patient and dentist will select an appropriate color shade so that the filling will blend in well.

Keeping more natural tooth

Another appealing aspect of composite fillings is that these do not require as much invasive work. People who want to retain more of their natural tooth should choose this material. With composite, the dentist will not have to extract as much tooth when cleaning out tooth decay. The composite material can fit into smaller spaces than other options.

For a wider range of problems

The dentist may recommend composite fillings for more issues than other methods could solve. The composite material is malleable and can work to repair cavities. But it also does good work with cracks, chips, and fractures. If a patient has multiple teeth with these problems, composite is a good way to go.

Get your tooth back to normal again

Tooth damage and cavities can be painful. These can also affect your smile and appearance. With composite fillings, you can solve these concerns. Make an appointment with your dentist and find out if you are a good candidate for this treatment.

Request an appointment here: https://frankforddentalcare.com or call Frankford Dental Care at 2153021746 for an appointment in our Philadelphia office.

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