Composite Fillings

Should you need treatment to repair a cavity, Dr. Dalwai will generally recommend the most conservative option to resolve the condition; for instance, improved hygiene techniques can help to rebuild or remineralize tooth structure. Generally, the more natural tooth structure that is preserved, the better. A dental filling may be appropriate for smaller cavities. Larger cavities or areas of deteriorated tooth structure may require more extensive treatment with inlays, onlays, crowns, or root canal therapy. If a filling is appropriate, dental materials are shaped and placed in the hole or cavity area. In turn, this material fills in the space that is left by decay and manifests as deteriorated or lost tooth structure.

Today’s dentists have many options for fillings. Historically, options were limited to amalgam or metal fillings. Today, we can use both metals and ceramics or metal-free materials like composite. The most appropriate option for you depends on various factors, ranging from the location of the damaged tooth to its function. We emphasize non-toxic, durable, long-lasting, and highly cosmetic filling materials.

Dental composite is a type of resin or plastic. It can be perfectly color-matched to blend in with the surrounding tooth structure so it looks great and natural next to the surrounding teeth! The benefits do not stop there. Dental composites are also an appealing option for individuals who are concerned about sensitivities, allergies, or potential toxicities associated with certain metals. As a completely metal-free option, composites may be appropriate for many different types of patients. It is known to be compatible with biological or natural tissues, so you don’t have to worry about irritation or potential damage to the neighboring gums and other tissues.

We use gentle and painless anesthetic techniques in all that we do, so this approach to repairing cavities is even well-suited to patients with dental anxieties or phobias. Also, with composite resin fillings, cavities can be repaired while conserving the maximum amount of natural and healthy tooth structure. This approach creates a stronger tooth and prevents future breakage and the need for more costly and extensive restorations such as crowns, root canal therapy, or even extraction followed by tooth replacement. Dr. Dalwai can simply apply the composite in layers as a pliable material. This is done to a completely cleaned-out and numbed tooth. As the composite is applied, he hardens it with a curing light to ensure the strongest bond between material and tooth.