Keller Dentist and Staff

Composite Fillings for Loose or Decayed Teeth

Composite fillings are used in areas of a tooth that have decayed to repair small cavities that mimics it's natural shade. The decayed portion of your tooth is removed, leaving a small prepared area that will be filled with the composite fillings. Composite fillings can last for years before they may need to be replaced.

Cavities can occur in both pediatric as well as adult teeth. Rather than ignore the area of decay so that it can get worse, the decay is carefully removed and a filling put into its place. If you have a cavity or want to replace an amalgam (metal) filling placed, composite fillings are tooth-colored and more seamless and may be right for you.

Who is a Candidate Composite Fillings?

You may be a candidate for a tooth-colored filling If you have a cavity, broken tooth, or a deteriorated filling, it's important to have it filled as soon as possible. Schedule a dental consultation to find out if composites are right for you.

What Happens During Composite Fillings Procedures?

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. We will first numb the area with a local anesthetic. This is done to help with your comfort during the procedure. The decayed portion of your tooth is removed, leaving a small area that will be filled with composite. Once this is complete, a bonding fluid is applied so that the filling will attach to the natural tooth.

A curing light is used to harden and set the bonding fluid. Your dentist then fills the prepared area with composite material and excess filling is removed and smoothed so that it seamlessly blends with the rest of the tooth. A special curing light is used to harden the composite. Finally we smooth and polish the filling to match the rest of your tooth so you are able to leave the office with your beautifully restored smile. It's normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.

If you'd like to come into our office to learn more about composite fillings, call us now and we can help to answer your questions.