Repair Minor Cavities and Damage with Natural-looking Composite Fillings

Cavity treatment is simple but requires skills to avoid lingering tooth sensitivity and an unnatural bite. The procedure starts with examining the tooth to determine the extent of damage. If only a filling is needed, the dentist will anesthetize your gums and remove the decayed portions of your tooth.

Next, we’ll thoroughly clean and sanitize your tooth until all the infection is gone. The doctor will then carefully fill the tooth with composite resin and reshape it to the desired light. The filling will be hardened with a curing light, and final adjustments will be made to ensure a comfortable bite. Finally, your filling will be polished to shine, and now you can speak and eat without pain or sensitivity.

Expect little to no downtime after a dental filling. Avoid hot drinks or chewing after about two hours until the anesthesia wears off. Otherwise, you may accidentally burn or bite your tongue, lips, or cheeks. You may experience sensitivity, but this is mild and lasts several days to weeks. Consult your dentist if you experience prolonged discomfort.

Tooth-colored fillings provide a long-lasting solution for treating cavities. Many fillings can last 5-8 years or more with good maintenance. Keep your tooth filling with the following maintenance tips:

• Good oral hygiene: Floss and brush your teeth diligently to prevent plaque buildup. You can also consider a medicated mouthwash to eliminate harmful bacteria from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
• Diet: Limit the intake of acidic and sugary foods and drinks. In addition, reduce the intake of coffee, dark berries, tea, red wine, etc., as they can stain your fillings.
• Manage bruxism: Protect your smile against chronic teeth grinding by investing in a customized nightguard.
• Regular dental visits: Visit your dentist every six months or sooner for routine check-ups and cleanings. Oral wellness visits help the dentist detect and treat oral issues before progressing.
• Avoid poor oral habits: Don’t use your teeth to chew non-food items like fingernails, candies, ice, etc. Additionally, quit tobacco use of any form. Tobacco contains tar and nicotine, which can stain your teeth and fillings. Tobacco also increases plaque buildup, increasing the risk of gum disease and bad breath.