Dr. Patrick Ousborne and Dr. Rikki Esterson provide tooth-colored dental fillings to patients in their Towson, Maryland dental office. Composite fillings are a general dental treatment that offers many benefits over traditional metal fillings. Learn more about the tooth-colored dental fillings offered at Dental Excellence below.
What is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a necessary general dentistry treatment that we use to preserve the natural tooth. If a tooth develops tooth decay or has minor damage, we can use a filling to fix the damage and make the tooth stronger. This will also ensure that the decay does not progress and bacteria never enters the tooth. We use a composite material that pliable. This material can be shaped by hand to fill in the damaged portion of the tooth.
Composite Dental Fillings
Modern tooth-colored or composite dental fillings repair one or more teeth affected by deep cracks, fractures, cavities, and tooth decay. This is the most popular type of material used for fillings because it mimics the color of natural teeth perfectly.
Many people still have silver metal fillings in their mouths, which can cause a multitude of problems. The edges of the silver filling can wear down or break. Over time, the silver filling expands, and can even occasionally split the tooth. We can provide replacement composite fillings if your metal fillings are deteriorating.
Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Composite fillings can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth for a more natural restoration. Fillings are bonded to the teeth to effectively replace lost tooth structure. With composite fillings, more of the natural tooth structure remains intact and strengthens the tooth. Restoring teeth with tooth-colored fillings provides durability as well as a more conservative treatment that is healthier for the teeth and gums.
Receiving Composite Dental Fillings
We can place composite fillings in one visit at our Towson, MD office. Before providing a dental filling, we remove decay and clean the tooth to finally seal it off with a composite resin restoration. To remove decay from the tooth, we will numb the area around the tooth that we are treating. Next, your dentist will use various tools to gently remove all decay and damage. After that, they will thoroughly clean the tooth. If there is decay near the tooth’s nerve, we will apply medication for extra protection. Your dentist will then place, shape, and then polish the composite filling for a natural sheen.
Do I need a tooth filling, an inlay or onlay?
Your dentist will perform a thorough exam to determine the best treatment for your tooth. A composite tooth filling is the best treatment for minor damage or decay. If you have more significant decay or damage, your dentist may suggest an inlay or onlay. These are larger restorations that require several visits and impressions of your teeth. Essentially, they are larger than a filling but not quite the size of a dental crown.
Patients may experience mild tooth sensitivity following their treatment which most often will subside over time. Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson will provide postoperative instructions so you can recover quickly and safely. Dental fillings last longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Be sure to schedule routine appointments by calling (410) 514-6553 or requesting a consultation with Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson on our website.