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Sep
Sadly, cavities are something almost everyone has in common. Caught early enough, cavities caused by decay can be treated fairly easily with composite resin fillings. Unlike amalgam fillings, which can be spotted from a distance, composite fillings are discreet due to their tooth-colored appearance. At BLUSH Dental Studio, we offer composite fillings to our patients in East Point, Georgia. Here are some questions Dr. Kisha Carter and Dr. Jaime Kim frequently get asked about composite fillings.
Composite fillings are composed of plastic resin mixed with finely ground glass. This whitish mixture is highly pliable and conforms easily to the shape of your tooth. The filling is generally applied in layers and hardened with UV light to stay in place. Most treatments can be completed in one dental visit.
Esthetics is one of the main benefits of composite fillings. The filling can be color-matched to the exact shade of your tooth so that it’s “invisible” when you smile. Composite fillings don’t require much drilling as the mixture bonds well with your tooth enamel to form a tight seal against future decay. When dry, the resin material strengthens and supports your teeth to prevent chipping or cracking in the future. Â
Depending on the location and size of your cavity, this procedure can take between 30 and 60 minutes to complete. If you’re anxious about getting a filling, we’ll do our best to help you feel comfortable during your cavity treatment, even if it takes a little longer.
With good oral care, composite fillings can last up to 10 years. Amalgam fillings tend to last a bit longer. You care for fillings by taking good care of your teeth, i.e., brushing and flossing daily and scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings. Today, resin fillings are stronger than ever, making them good choices for both front and back teeth. You can make your fillings last longer by not chewing on ice, not using your teeth like tools, and avoiding hard and sticky foods.
No, getting a filling doesn’t hurt, as your East Point dentist will numb your mouth for this procedure. Although you can eat immediately after the filling has hardened, we recommend waiting until after the anesthesia has worn off to avoid accidentally biting your tongue or cheek.
Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings don’t contain metal or mercury. They won’t trigger metal allergies or leak mercury into your mouth over the years. If you’re concerned about metal or mercury in your filling, composite fillings are a better choice for you.
East Point, GA, residents can come to BLUSH Dental Studio for composite filling treatment. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kisha Carter or Dr. Jaime Kim, contact us at (404) 595-5104.