When your oral hygiene is compromised, it can lead to plaque buildup on the teeth and gums. The buildup will cause bacteria to multiply and attack the enamel causing it to crack or holes to develop, or worse still dental cavities. When you have minor dental decay, our dentist in Houston will use a dental filling to eliminate and prevent further spread of decay.
Although there are various dental fillings available, composite fillings are one of the most preferred types.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are made of acrylic resin and powdered glass. These dental fillings are tooth-colored and blend effortlessly with your teeth. On the downside, the composite fillings are less durable as the material used is prone to wear and tear. Furthermore, they can also discolor and develop stains over time.
Besides composite, you can come across amalgam or ceramic dental filling that is similar to composite but durable.
When Are Composite Fillings Used?
Our dentist in Houston can recommend composite cavity fillings to address various dental situations such as:
· Dental cavities
Poor dental hygiene is the primary cause of bacteria growth, and when the bacteria build up in the gum it can cause infection and decay. If left untreated, the bacteria can attack the root canal can cause tooth decay.
To stop the spread of the decay and infection, the dentist may use composite fillings to cover the teeth.
· Tooth discoloration
Our diet, lifestyle, and age can cause our teeth to discolor and lose their natural appearance. Although we usually advise our patients to get professional teeth whitening, composite fillings can also be used in severe cases to hide the stains.
· Holes in your teeth
Most of the teeth holes are caused by cavities, but your teeth can crack due to accidents. These holes offer a perfect environment for bacteria to grow and multiply. Because they are not painful, the holes can harbor food particles and you may not notice them until it’s too late. However, with regular dental checkups, the dentist may notice the holes and use composite fillings to cover them up.
How are the Composite Fillings Applied?
The composite filling application lasts for about an hour. The dentist will take an x-ray to examine your dental condition. Plus, they will discuss with you the procedure, and what is expected. They will give local anesthesia to numb the teeth, gums, and the inner mouth to lessen the discomfort. Next, the dentist will drill the teeth to remove decay and replace it with composite resin, which is applied in layers to harden it and make it long-lasting.
Afterward, the tooth will be polished to improve its appearance. The mouth will remain numb for a few hours until the anesthesia wears off.
There are Risks Involved
Although anesthesia is used during the procedure, you will have slight pain and discomfort after a few hours. Other problems you may encounter include:
- Tooth sensitivity which develops immediately after the procedure, but will clear up in a few days. If it doesn’t subside within a week, call our dentist for an assessment
- Wearing down of the composite filling. Because they are made of less durable material, the fillings may get worn out due to constant chewing, grinding, and clenching.
- Infection may occur when filling pulls away from the teeth. The tiny spaces in between can create a breeding environment for bacteria
Dental Filling After Care
Now that you have a new composite dental filling, there are a few instructions to follow:
- Don’t eat until the anesthesia has worn off to avoid hurting yourself
- Refrain from drinking or eating hot foods to prevent irritating the gums
- Don’t smoke
- Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash to strengthen your teeth
- Get regular dental checkups for early detection of the above-mentioned dental problems
Composite dental fillings not only protect your teeth but will also prevent decay from spreading. If you are looking for composite filling in Houston, contact our dental team, and we will give you the best dental solution.