Tooth-Colored Fillings

The most common and well-known treatment provided in a general dentist's office is filling or restoring teeth. Fillings are needed when a tooth is affected by caries (decay), and are used to restore the function and integrity of the tooth. In some cases where there is shallow decay, a sealant may be used instead of a filling. When a filling is necessary, Drs. Camp and Heubner only use a tooth-colored material called composite. This material is safer and more attractive than silver mercury fillings.

How is composite placed?

After numbing the area and removing all tooth decay, we will place the composite material in layers, using a light specialized to harden each layer. When the process is finished, we will shape the composite to fit the tooth. We will finish by polishing the composite filling to prevent staining and early wear.

What are the advantages of composite?

Esthetics is the main advantage of composite fillings, as we can blend shades to create a color that is nearly identical to that of the actual tooth. Composites also bond to the tooth to support the remaining tooth structure, which helps prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes. And with recent advances in materials and techniques, composite fillings are stronger today than they have ever been.

What are the disadvantages?

After receiving a composite filling, you may experience mild sensitivity for a few days. Also, the shade of the composite can change slightly if you drink tea, coffee or other staining foods. We can apply a clear plastic coating over the composite to prevent the color from changing if you are particularly concerned about this. Composites tend to wear out sooner than silver mercury fillings in large cavities, however, they hold up just as well in small cavities.