Restore Your Smile at Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
If you have cavities or tooth decay, composite dental fillings can provide a durable, natural-looking solution. At Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we proudly offer composite fillings to help restore your oral health and enhance your smile. Using advanced technology like the Waterlase iPlus dental laser, our dental team ensures a comfortable, precise, and efficient treatment experience.
Contact our Denton, TX, dental office today at (940) 566-4888 to schedule your appointment.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are tooth-colored dental restorations made from a mixture of plastic and powdered glass. These dental fillings bond seamlessly to your teeth, offering both strength and a natural appearance.
Composite resin is commonly used for:
- Restoring decayed or damaged teeth
- Repairing chipped or broken teeth
- Filling gaps between teeth (diastemas)
- Improving the aesthetics of your smile
The Benefits of Composite Dental Fillings
Composite dental fillings are a preferred choice for many patients due to their numerous advantages:
- Natural Appearance: They blend with your tooth’s natural color, making them virtually invisible.
- Durability: Composite resin materials are strong and resilient, ideal for restoring both anterior and posterior teeth.
- Preservation of Tooth Structure: Composite fillings require minimal removal of natural tooth structure, maintaining the integrity of your teeth.
- Mercury-Free: Unlike amalgam fillings, composite resin restorations are free from mercury and other potentially harmful materials.
- Prevention of Further Tooth Decay: The bonding process creates a tight seal that helps protect your tooth from future damage.
Advanced Technology: Waterlase iPlus Dental Laser
At Garden Oaks, we use the Waterlase iPlus dental laser for composite filling procedures. This cutting-edge technology minimizes discomfort, reduces the need for local anesthesia, and ensures precise cavity preparation. The laser also promotes faster healing, making it a preferred choice for many patients.
Are Composite Fillings Right for You?
Composite fillings are suitable for most patients, but some situations may require alternative solutions. Composite fillings may not be ideal for:
- Extensive Tooth Decay: Severe decay might require a dental crown or other restoration.
- Large Cavities: For larger cavities, ceramic materials, inlays, or onlays may be more durable.
- Teeth Grinding: Habitual grinding or clenching can wear down composite materials over time. Consider using a custom mouthguard if you grind your teeth.
The Composite Dental Fillings Process
Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation, Dr. Patrick Ruehle or Dr. Erika Eide will examine your teeth and determine if composite fillings are the right solution for you. We’ll discuss the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have.
Tooth Preparation
After determining that a composite resin filling is the right choice, we’ll clean and prepare the tooth. Using the Waterlase iPlus laser, we’ll remove decayed or damaged tissue with precision and minimal discomfort.
Filling Placement
Composite resin is applied in layers and cured with a special light. Once the filling is complete, it is shaped and polished to match the contours of your natural tooth.
Caring for Your Composite Filling
To extend the lifespan of your composite fillings, follow these tips:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss regularly to prevent secondary caries.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: These can damage or dislodge your fillings.
- Wear a Mouthguard: Protect your teeth from grinding or clenching.
- Schedule Regular Checkups: Routine dental visits help identify potential issues early and ensure your fillings remain in excellent condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Composite dental fillings typically last seven to 10 years with proper care. Factors like diet, oral hygiene, and teeth grinding can influence their longevity. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly to ensure your restoration lasts and have them replaced as needed.
Yes, composite fillings are considered safe and have been endorsed by the American Dental Association. They’re mercury-free and offer a more natural appearance compared to dental amalgam fillings.
Many dental insurance plans cover composite fillings, but coverage may vary. Contact your dentist’s office for assistance in verifying your benefits or exploring financing options.
Call Our Dentist Today for Lasting Dental Composite Fillings
For high-quality composite dental fillings in Denton, TX, and surrounding areas like Robson Ranch, Corinth, Argyle, and Krum, trust Garden Oaks Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.
Our skilled team, advanced technology, and commitment to patient comfort ensure exceptional care. Call us at (940) 566-4888 to restore your smile and improve your oral health!