In the past, dentists filled cavities with amalgam or silver fillings. Today, durable tooth-colored fillings are the material of choice because they provide a more natural look. Tooth-colored fillings are safe, predictable, and almost hidden.
At Texas Dental in Plano, we use durable, tooth-colored composite fillings to restore decayed or damaged teeth. We want to fill your cavities while keeping your smile looking great. Choose composite fillings so they blend seamlessly with your teeth and provide a long-lasting solution.
Why You Might Need a Dental Filling
The most common reasons for getting a dental filling are tooth decay, cavities, and cracks in your teeth. When bacteria eat away at enamel, a cavity forms and leaves a hole in the tooth. If left untreated, decay can worsen and lead to more serious problems like infections and tooth loss. Fillings stop the decay and reinforce the tooth to stop further damage.
Fillings can also repair small chips or cracks caused by biting down on something hard, grinding your teeth, or an accident. We can even use fillings for minor cosmetic improvements, like closing small gaps between teeth or reshaping a tooth.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings consist of a blend of plastic resins and resin fillers. They strengthen tooth enamel while filling in the cavity. This material bonds directly to the tooth, strengthens it, and brings back its natural look. They are durable and can withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing on the front and back teeth.
Composite fillings are popular because they:
- Match the color of your natural teeth
- Provide strong, durable restoration
- Bond tightly to tooth enamel for extra support
- Contain no metal, making them a safer and more aesthetic option
Because of their ability to blend in, composite fillings work well for both front and back teeth. You will have a confident smile without visible dental work after a filling procedure at Texas Dental!
What to Expect During Your Filling Appointment
Getting a dental filling is a quick and straightforward procedure that usually takes less than an hour. Our dentists can complete a tooth-colored fillings procedure in one visit. Here’s what you can expect:
- Numbing the Area: To keep you comfortable, our dentist will apply a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding gums. It usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes to take full effect.
- Removing Decay or Damage: After you’re numb, the dentist will carefully take out the decayed or damaged part of your tooth. This ensures that only the healthy part of your tooth remains.
- Cleaning and Filling the Tooth: The dentist will fill the cavity or chipped area with composite material after cleaning it out. He then uses a special light to make the filling hard and secure it to the tooth.
- Shaping and Polishing: Finally, your dentist will shape the filling to match your natural bite and smooth it out. We will make sure it’s not sharp or sticks out.
After the filling is in, your tooth will be good as new and ready to use like normal. However, don’t be too hasty. Wait until the anesthetic completely fades to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
Once the numbing wears off, you can eat and drink as normal. Some patients experience mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure right after getting a filling. This is completely normal and should go away within a few days. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers if you feel any soreness around the injection site.
If sensitivity lasts longer than a few days or worsens, give us a call so we can check for any issues.
Caring for Your Dental Fillings
Composite fillings are strong and durable, but proper care will help them last even longer. With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your fillings can last 10 years or more. Here’s how to keep them in great shape:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup
- Avoid biting down on very hard foods or objects
- Schedule routine cleanings and exams every six months
Although composite fillings are tough, no dental restoration lasts forever. Over time, the dental filling can wear down from everyday use and might need to be replaced. By keeping up with regular dental checkups, we can keep an eye on them and catch any problems early on.
Schedule an Exam at Texas Dental in Plano, TX
If you have a cavity or a chipped tooth, don’t wait to get it fixed. A simple, painless filling at our Plano dental office can restore your tooth and prevent bigger issues. Contact Texas Dental in Plano today to schedule your appointment and keep your smile healthy and strong!