Composite Dental Fillings at Watsonville Dental Wellness Center
Composite Dental Fillings in Watsonville
Dental fillings are used to treat cavities caused by tooth decay, restoring your tooth’s function. Although this procedure can be completed quickly, you’ll want highly trained hands to ensure lasting results.
Our team at Watsonville Dental Wellness Center can fill cavities with a white filling – a dental restoration that’s just as effective and more inconspicuous than a normal metal filling.
What are White Fillings / Composite Fillings?
White fillings, or composite fillings, are made of a blend of plastics and composite resin that can be colored to match your tooth. These fillings can also be polished until smooth and resistant to staining.
Reasons for Composite Fillings
Fillings are an important dental restoration for tooth repair, and white fillings give an aesthetically pleasing result.
Some reasons why you might need a filling include:
Cavities
Cavities are areas of tooth decay caused by bacterial acids that break down the enamel, resulting in small holes that can worsen if left untreated.
Holes in Teeth
Holes in teeth typically refer to more advanced decay where cavities have enlarged, compromising the tooth’s structure and integrity.
Tooth Fracture
A tooth fracture is a crack or break in a tooth, often resulting from trauma or biting on hard objects, which can lead to pain and increased sensitivity.
Replacing a Filling
Replacing a filling involves removing an old or damaged filling and restoring the tooth with new material to protect it from further decay and maintain its function.
Worn Down Teeth
Worn down teeth occur when enamel is gradually eroded due to factors like grinding, aging, or an acidic diet, leading to thinning teeth and potential sensitivity.
Why Choose Us for Your Composite Fillings in Santa Cruz County
Expert, Personalized Dental Care
Our experienced team specializes in composite fillings, ensuring a tailored approach to restore your tooth structure and aesthetics with precision and care. We focus on preserving your natural tooth while enhancing its function and appearance.
High-Quality, Tooth-Colored Materials
We use premium composite materials that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. This not only provides a durable, long-lasting restoration but also offers a natural-looking finish that enhances your smile.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Our modern procedures emphasize preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. By utilizing state-of-the-art technology, we perform efficient, minimally invasive treatments that reduce discomfort and speed up recovery.
The Composite Fillings Process at Watsonville Dental Wellness Center
White fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb with local anesthetic, your dentist will remove any tooth decay. They’ll thoroughly clean the empty space in the tooth and prepare it for the new filling.
If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The dentist then places, shapes, and polishes the filling, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.
It’s normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold after the procedure, but this will subside when your tooth acclimates to the new filling. We’ll be sure to give you care instructions at the end of your treatment. And remember, good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will help your new fillings last even longer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Composite Fillings
Do you have questions about Composite Fillings, otherwise known as White Fillings? We are here to answer them and alleviate any concerns. If you did not find the answer to your question here, contact our office for more personalized information.
How do composite fillings work?
After removing the decayed portion of the tooth, the composite material is applied directly and then cured with a special light, creating a strong bond that restores both the function and appearance of the tooth.
What are the benefits of composite fillings?
They offer a natural, aesthetically pleasing look, require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to traditional amalgam fillings, and provide a durable, long-lasting solution.
What are Fillings Usually Made Of?
There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. White fillings and amalgam (silver) fillings are the most widely used today.
Because white fillings are tooth-colored, they will blend right in with the rest of your teeth while still being highly durable. Amalgam fillings will last a long time, but they usually contain traces of mercury that can be toxic when the filling wears down, breaks, or has to be removed.
How long do composite fillings last?
With proper care and regular dental check-ups, composite fillings typically last between 5 to 10 years, though longevity may vary based on individual oral habits and the location of the filling.
Do composite fillings require significant removal of healthy tooth structure?
No, one of the key advantages of composite fillings is their minimally invasive nature, which preserves more of your natural tooth compared to other types of restorations.
How does the cost of composite fillings compare to other options?
While composite fillings may be slightly more expensive than amalgam fillings, their superior aesthetics and conservative approach to tooth structure make them a popular choice, especially for visible areas.
What maintenance is required for composite fillings?
Maintaining composite fillings involves regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits. Avoiding excessive forces and minimizing consumption of staining foods or beverages can also help prolong their lifespan.
Can composite fillings be used on both front and back teeth?
Yes, composite fillings are versatile and can be effectively used to restore both anterior and posterior teeth, providing both functional strength and a natural appearance.
Schedule Your Composite Fillings In Watsonville Today
Ready to reclaim your beautiful smile? Contact Watsonville Dental Wellness Center today to schedule your White Fillings in Santa Cruz County. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey to dental wellness.
Remember, your dental health is an investment – in yourself, your confidence, and your wellbeing. Let our expert team at Watsonville Dental Wellness Center help you make that investment count.