Restorative Dentistry

Resin Fillings

Do you need a cavity filled, but don’t want a mouthful of metal? Our dentists use a composite resin, a natural-looking, tooth-colored alternative to silver fillings. Composite resin is a tough, plastic material that is simple to apply and virtually impossible to detect. After the decay is removed, the dentist isolates the tooth from saliva and carefully applies an adhesive followed by several thin layers of the tooth-colored composite. Once the filling is in place, it is hardened for about a minute with a special light.

Composites are preferable for obvious cosmetic reasons, but if the decayed area is large or is subject to heavy chewing pressure, your dentist may recommend another type of material or restoration. Some people may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures in the newly filled tooth for a few days or as long as a week.

Resin fillings usually require only one visit, during which the tooth is prepared and restored. However, resin fillings, like other dental materials, may require replacement after several years. If the edge of the filling eventually pulls away from the tooth, bacteria can get between the filling and the enamel and eventually may cause decay. Or tooth decay may develop elsewhere on the tooth. Regular dental checkups are important because they allow the dentist to detect any problems in the early stages and they can repair or prevent future fillings. If you are aware of existing cavities or if it has been more than six months since your last exam, contact us today to make an appointment with one of our dentists.