Composite dental fillings, also called “white” fillings, are made of composite resin and used to restore teeth that have small cavities, chips or worn edges. They are called “white” fillings because of the natural, tooth color of the material. Unlike inlays and onlays that are crafted in an outside lab, composite dental fillings can be made on-site and completed in a single office visit. Composite dental fillings are a general dentistry procedure that Dr. Steven Hoard provides to his patients.
Composite Dental Fillings in New Bern, NC
A composite “white” filling is used when the cavity is small and the patient desires a natural-looking restoration. Dental fillings save tooth structure and prevent problems associated with advanced tooth decay.
It is essential to schedule regular dentist visits and brush and floss twice a day to prevent cavities from forming. However, dental fillings can clean out teeth and stop decay at the source.
First, Dr. Hoard will numb the area, then prepare the tooth for restoration, removing any decay. Next, a bio-compatible dental resin is applied directly to the tooth to fill in the cavity. Once it has been cured, the composite dental filling is smoothed and shaped for fit and comfort.
Technology
No special technology is necessary for the use of composite dental fillings; it is just the artistic skill of a trained cosmetic dentist to ensure natural-looking, comfortable results.
Recover/Post Op Expectations
Some discomfort or tenderness in the area of the filling may be experienced after the procedure. Ibuprofen can reduce the symptoms.
Complications
Complications from the use of composites are unlikely. It is possible that you may need an adjustment to accommodate your natural bite, and there may be minor sensitivity for a few days.
Am I A Candidate for Composite Dental Fillings?
If you have either a small cavity or an existing small metal filling you wish to have replaced, you are a candidate for a composite “white” dental filling. For patients who have larger cavities, large old metal fillings or teeth that are structurally weakened, Dr. Hoard may recommend a dental inlay or only or a dental crown to provide added protection and support.
Contact us to learn more about composite dental fillings and find out if they are right for you.
Dental Fillings FAQs
Learn more about dental fillings in our New Bern, NC, dental office with answers to these common questions:
How long do fillings last?
Although it depends on the location of the filling, the size, and your dental hygiene will last anywhere from 7 to 20 years. With a great oral hygiene routine and bi-yearly visits to the dentist, they can last much longer.
Can I brush my teeth after a filling?
Yes, you can brush your teeth after a filling. You typically don’t need to wait before brushing. That being said, you should be careful not to brush the filled tooth with the same force you use on your other teeth.
Are tooth-colored fillings better?
Tooth-colored fillings bond to the tooth structure itself, often providing more support. Because of this, they can repair broken, chipped, and ground-down teeth. However, they can wear out much faster than other filling materials.
What should I do if my filling falls out?
First, don’t panic. See if you feel any pain or sensitivity in the tooth. If you do, be careful when eating or drinking because the tooth may be exposed.
If you can find the filling, keep it in a safe place. We might be able to use it again. Then, gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Avoid using hot or cold water, as it may cause discomfort.
Make an appointment with our dentist as soon as possible. He will check your tooth and determine the best way to fix it.
Are dental fillings painful?
Dental fillings are not usually painful. Your dentist will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic before beginning the procedure. However, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the treated tooth after the anesthesia wears off. This discomfort should subside within a few days to a week. If it persists or worsens, contact your dentist.
What can I eat after a dental filling?
After getting a dental filling, you should only consume soft foods that require minimal chewing. These foods include yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, or scrambled eggs. It’s best to avoid hot or cold foods and drinks if your mouth is still numb. Doing so will prevent accidental burns or bites.
Once the numbness subsides, you should avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for a few days. Hard and crunchy foods could shift or move the new filling. Lastly, try chewing on the opposite side of the mouth where the dentist placed the filling.
How long do dental fillings take?
A dental filling procedure usually takes anywhere from twenty minutes to an hour. It will depend on the complexity and size of the cavity. Simple fillings may take as little as twenty minutes, while larger or multiple cavities could take up to an hour or more. The use of modern dental technology has streamlined the process of getting fillings.
Do I need a crown or a filling?
We will examine your tooth to see if you need a crown or filling. If your tooth has a small cavity or a minor area of decay, a filling is usually enough. Fillings fix small damaged parts of the tooth.
If your tooth has more serious damage—like a large crack or big cavity—a crown is often the better choice. A crown covers the entire visible part of the tooth, protecting it and strengthening it.
Call Our Dental Office
Get dental fillings in New Bern, NC. Call (252) 507-0373 or schedule an appointment with us online. If you have more questions for us, let us know at your next visit. We’ll be happy to help.