Composite Fillings
At the dental practice of Dr. R. Todd Scanlon, DMD, we understand the importance of maintaining a beautiful and healthy smile. When it comes to treating cavities or repairing damaged teeth, composite fillings offer a highly effective and aesthetically pleasing solution. These tooth-colored fillings are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a durable and discreet restoration. If you're searching for a Webster Groves, MO dentist who specializes in advanced dental care, our practice is here to help you achieve a confident, healthy smile.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are made from a resin-based material that can be carefully matched to the natural color of your teeth, making them an ideal choice for filling cavities in visible areas. Unlike traditional metal amalgam fillings, composite fillings provide a more aesthetic result, particularly for front teeth or other areas that are easily visible when you smile or talk. These fillings are not only durable for small to medium-sized cavities, but they also offer the advantage of requiring less removal of the tooth structure compared to amalgam fillings.
When Can Composite Fillings Be Used?
Composite fillings are versatile and can be used in a variety of situations, including:
- Cavities: When decay has affected your tooth, composite fillings can restore both function and appearance.
- Chipped or Broken Teeth: If a tooth is fractured or chipped, a composite filling can repair the damage while blending naturally with the surrounding teeth.
- Closing Gaps Between Teeth: Composite fillings can help to reduce the size of gaps between teeth, improving both function and aesthetics.
The Composite Filling Procedure
The process of receiving a composite filling is straightforward and relatively quick, typically requiring just one visit to our office. At your appointment with our Webster Groves, MO dentist, the area around the decayed tooth will be numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure. Once the area is numb, Dr. Scanlon will carefully remove the decayed portions of your tooth.
Next, a bonding agent is applied to the tooth to prepare it for the composite material. This bonding agent helps to open the pores of the tooth, allowing for a stronger and more durable bond between the tooth and filling. A special light is used to cure and harden the bonding material.
Afterward, the composite filling is applied in thin layers, with each layer being hardened with the curing light before the next is applied. This gradual layering process allows for a more precise and comfortable fit. Once the final layer is in place and hardened, the filling is carefully shaped and polished to match the contours of your natural tooth. Dr. Scanlon will ensure that the filling fits comfortably in your bite, so you can enjoy a smooth and functional result.
Why Choose Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings offer many benefits, including their ability to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, their strength and durability, and the fact that less of the tooth structure needs to be removed. Whether you need a filling for a cavity, a chipped tooth, or to improve the appearance of your smile, composite fillings are a great option for patients who want both aesthetics and functionality.
If you're looking for a Webster Groves, MO dentist who can provide high-quality composite fillings, contact the office of Dr. R. Todd Scanlon, DMD today to schedule your consultation. We’re here to help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve!
