Composite Resin Fillings (Tooth – Colored Fillings)
The composite fillings are a mixture of acrylic resin and glass particles that produce a tooth-colored restoration. This type of material may be self-hardening or may be hardened by exposure to blue light. Dental fillings are done to fill in the spaces made by the dentist, where the diseased tooth once existed. Sometimes it is used to replace a portion of a broken or chipped tooth.
There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations:
– Resin fillings are completed in a single visit
– The resin material is bonded to teeth, creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth
– The fillings are durable, tissue compatible, and kind to the opposing teeth
– The bonding properties of resin fillings allow the procedure to be very conservative, where only the bad portion of the tooth needs to be removed
– Most importantly. Color and shading can be matched to the existing tooth, maximizing aesthetics
Dr. Cohil utilizes the latest state-of-the-art materials that are not only beautiful, but also add strength to weakened teeth.
The Procedure for Composite Resin Fillings:
When you first visit our Apopka office for your dental filling, Dr Cohil may numb the region with local anesthesia. A dental hand-piece is then utilized to remove the decay or roughen the surface for proper bonding. The surface of the prepared tooth is lightly etched with an acid gel. A bonding agent is then applied to the preparation. Once the bonding agent sets, the tooth-colored filling is placed. Once it is fully cured and hardened, the dentist will trim, shape, smooth and polish the filling restoration to a natural appearance.
Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth-Colored Restoration:
Ultimately, it is the decision of the patient whether or not to replace fully intact silver fillings. However, Amalgam (mercury-silver) fillings have a tendency to corrode over time and either create a metallic taste and/or darken. They can leak and cause stains on your teeth or gums. Therefore, many people find them less attractive than tooth-colored fillings. Also, the placement of an amalgam filling requires removal of some healthy tooth structure, because it depends on depth and size to keep this type of filling in place; it does not bond. Ultimately this results in weaker tooth structure, especially if this type of filling occupies 70% of the original tooth structure. In a case like this, the dentist may recommend a full coverage crown for added strength and longevity.
At your dental appointment, Dr. Cohil will recommend the best, most conservative treatment to provide you a long term result that is both comfortable and natural-looking. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call our Apopka office at (407) 889-9682.