Tooth decay is not a problem to ignore, and it won’t go away without treatment. Tooth pain, sensitivity, and staining will all only continue to get worse without proper care. Composite fillings are a safe, efficient, and effective solution for treating cavities.
If you’re suffering from tooth decay, you’re not alone. Cavities are one of the most common dental complications despite their preventability. According to the CDC, 90% of adults over 20 have experienced at least one cavity in their lifetime, and 25% of adults aged 20-64 currently have one.
At Dental Care of Lombard, Dr. Julie Glud practices restorative, cosmetic, and preventive dentistry. With advanced technology and years of experience, our team is here to restore the strength and beauty of your smile.
Previously, dental practices have used amalgam as the go-to material for dental fillings. Amalgam fillings are 50% mercury and while they are considered safe by the FDA, they can release small clouds of mercury vapor while chewing. They are also noticeable in the mouth due to their silver color.
Composite fillings are composed of high-grade, biocompatible material so they provide patients with a restorative solution that looks and feels natural. There are many benefits to composite fillings, including the following.
1. Natural Appearance
When you need a filling, the last thing you want is noticeable material. Composite fillings are color-matched to your exact shade so they are virtually invisible when you smile.
2. Efficiency and Versatility
Composite resin usually sets in less than a minute. Composite fillings also require less drilling than amalgam ones so nervous patients can rest easy.
Composite resin is a versatile dental substance that can be used for more than just filling cavities. If you have chipped or cracked teeth, composite resin is a quick-bonding, natural-colored option for restoration.
3. Reduced Sensitivity
It is normal to experience some mild sensitivity after receiving a filling, but this discomfort is reduced by the use of composite resin. Other materials expand and contract with temperature exposure, but composite fillings remain constant and insulate the tooth against hot and cold.
4. Effective Bonding
Cavities weaken the integrity of your teeth. Luckily, composite fillings don’t just protect your tooth from further decay, they also bond directly to your enamel, strengthening your tooth and making the filling less likely to come loose. Amalgam fillings require the removal of a significant amount of your natural tooth, but composite fillings preserve most of the original structure.
5. Ability for Repairs
Some fillings eventually start to degrade from grinding, chewing, and general wear and tear. Unlike other materials, composite fillings can be repaired so you don’t need a completely new restoration. Composite resin can also replace old amalgam fillings if they are damaged or if you just prefer the natural look of composite fillings.
Composite Fillings in Lombard
Regular brushing and flossing, a healthy diet, and regular dental cleanings are the best way to prevent tooth decay. However, if you do find yourself with a cavity, visit our practice right away. Composite fillings are a minimally invasive, strong, and resilient treatment option.
To learn more about composite fillings or to schedule an appointment, contact us online or call our office at 630-629-5700. Don’t let tooth decay continue to disrupt your everyday life, book an appointment today!
