Everyone wants a bright, confident smile. When cavities or minor tooth damage require treatment, the selection of the appropriate type of filling is crucial to both function and appearance. Many patients choose composite fillings in NW Calgary since they match the appearance of natural teeth while being durable and protective.
If you are thinking about dental fillings, here’s why composite fillings could be just what you’re looking for.
What are Cavities?
Cavities are holes in your teeth left behind by decay. They form when the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, which produces a harmful acid that wears down your enamel. If left untreated, cavities can get bigger, cause pain, and even lead to infections.
Dental fillings are used to seal and strengthen a tooth weakened by a cavity. A dentist will clear out all the decay, disinfect the area to keep the bacteria from spreading, and then fill in the tooth.
What are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are composed of a combination of plastic resin and micro-ground glass particles. This combination produces a tooth-hued substance that closely replicates the shine of natural enamel. In contrast to older amalgam fillings, which are silver in appearance, composite fillings look indistinguishable from adjacent teeth and are well-suited to visible locations.
Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings
For decades, amalgam fillings were the norm for filling cavities. But composite fillings have some benefits:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Composite fillings are colored to match your natural teeth, so they are nearly invisible.
- Less Tooth Removal: The composite filling bonding process enables more conservative tooth preparation, leaving more of your natural structure intact.
- Stronger Bonding: Composite fillings bond with the tooth itself, minimizing the risk of cracks or fractures.
- Mercury-Free Alternative: Composite fillings are not filled with mercury as amalgam is, and thus some patients feel more comfortable staying away from the mercury.
- Flexibility: The material used for the composite can fix chipped, cracked, or worn-out teeth besides filling teeth with cavities.
Reasons to Consider Composite Fillings
Aside from their natural look, there are several other reasons why acquiring a composite or “white” filling is worthwhile. Modern composite fillings are designed to withstand the pressure of chewing and daily use. They provide strong and long-lasting results, especially for small to medium cavities. Secondly, because composite fillings require minimal drilling, more of the natural tooth structure remains intact. This helps maintain the strength and integrity of your tooth over time.
Many patients experience less sensitivity to hot and cold foods with composite fillings compared to metal fillings. This is because composite material does not expand and contract as much as metal, reducing the risk of discomfort. Lastly, the overall process is relatively quick and straightforward. In most cases, it can be completed in a single visit. Your dentist will clean the affected area, apply the composite material in layers, and harden it with a special curing light. Once shaped and polished, the filling blends seamlessly with your natural tooth.
Choose Sage Hill Dental for Your Composite Fillings
Whether you have a cavity that needs to be treated or a chipped tooth that needs to be fixed, composite fillings are a smooth and effective solution. If you’re searching for high-quality composite fillings, we at Sage Hill Dental are here to assist you.
Our skilled team makes sure that your fillings are natural-looking and function well. Make a consultation with our reputable dentist in NW Calgary today and start building a healthier, more confident smile!
