Restore Your Tooth and Your Oral Health with Conservative Dental Fillings
Do you think you might need a filling in Blaine, Washington? Fillings are common treatments in dentistry, and most people need at least one at some point in their lives. Borderview Dental offers tooth-colored (composite) fillings to repair tooth damage without compromising your natural aesthetics. Unlike amalgam fillings of the past, composite fillings blend naturally with existing teeth to deliver undetectable results. Eat, talk, and smile from ear to ear and no one will be able to tell you have a filling.
What can I expect from a tooth-filling procedure?
You can expect a fast and painless process when repairing your tooth with a filling. Your dentist will use local anesthetics to numb your afflicted tooth and minimize discomfort during treatment. The dentist will then take out the decayed portion of the tooth and clean the area thoroughly to eliminate any traces of harmful bacteria.
The next step is to layer composite material in place, we’ll sculpt and shape the filling, before we harden it with a curing light. Then, we’ll polish your filling to match the contours of your natural teeth. Before you leave, we’ll check your bite to make sure it looks and feels natural.
What can I expect after a tooth-filling treatment?
You can immediately resume your regular activities after treatment. However, avoid chewing or drinking hot drinks until your anesthesia wears off. Otherwise, eating with your mouth numb puts you at risk of biting your tongue or burning your soft tissues.
Your treated tooth becomes immediately available for use after treatment. Although you may experience some sensitivity, this is usually minor and disappears after a few hours. Healing after cavity treatment is usually event-free, but should you experience any unexpected symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact our team.
Like any other restoration, your filling requires maintenance. Brush and floss your teeth diligently to prevent plaque buildup. Visit your dentist every six months and refrain from smoking, as this can discolor your filling.
What are some of the benefits of composite fillings?
Unlike amalgam fillings made from metal alloys, composite fillings are made out of powdered glass and resin.. Composites are made with biocompatible and tooth-colored materials, offering the following benefits over their metal counterparts:
- Natural appearance: Many patients love white fillings because they blend naturally with the existing teeth. This way, you can laugh, smile, and eat confidently without worrying about the metal appearance synonymous with amalgam fillings.
- Safety: As more people are becoming concerned about mercury in silver fillings, white fillings have become more popular than ever. These fillings are created from toxic-free materials, making them a safe option for tooth restoration.
- Better bond: Composite fillings chemically bond with the tooth, creating a foolproof seal against bacterial infections and other irritants.
- Thermal resistance: Composite fillings have insulating properties, which means they are resistant to temperature changes. White fillings don’t expand or contract when eating cold or hot foods, keeping your tooth intact.
- Conservative procedure: A composite filling is a minimally invasive procedure in which the dentist only removes a small portion of the tooth. Minimal tooth alteration preserves the natural integrity of your tooth, minimizing the risk of fractures and breakage.
Am I a suitable candidate for a dental filling?
Dr. Sandhu and Dr. Alamwala use the latest materials and techniques to provide the best possible treatment for dental fillings. Contact us at (360) 332-8737 to enjoy our high-quality tooth fillings in Blaine, WA.