Composite White Fillings

Composites/Fillings/Resins in Huntington Beach, CA

Composite or white fillings are a protective, aesthetic solution for preserving the overall health of a tooth.

What is a Composite Filling?

The process of replacing cavities, chipping, and discoloration with a modern, aesthetic alternative. These white or tooth-colored fillings are made from a mixture of resin and glass particles, that bond to and blend seamlessly with your tooth. This healthier alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings has great benefits over its predecessor. ‍

Signs A Filling is Needed

• Discoloration
• Cavities in Between Teeth
• Chipped/Damaged Teeth
• Worn Teeth
• Abfractions

What is the process for a Filling?

The process firstly begins with removing the damaged tooth structure resulting from cavities, chips, or discoloration. Removal is done conservatively, maintaining a healthy amount of enamel – which allows for greater adhesion or bonding of the resin to the tooth. Compared to its amalgam predecessor, composites bond via biomechanical adhesion, allowing for minimal removal of tooth structure, and maximizing healthy tooth structure.

After removal of the affected area, the surface is lightly treated with a series of chemicals to improve the adhesion properties of the resin. The tooth is lightly etched in order to roughen the surface and open pores. At Dental Oasis of Orange County, this process is further enhanced through the use of an antimicrobial rinse and desensitizing agent, prior to applying the bond or adhesive.

Once this process is finished, selection of the best shade is made in order to seamlessly match the material color to your natural tooth. The resin is packed in increments and light cured to activate the polymers and harden the material. The filling is then shaped, refined, and polished to provide a beautiful result.

‍‍‍The “Process”

1. Removal of Decay/Chips/Fractures/Discoloration
2. Refine Preparation
3. Restore with Composite Resin/White Filling

Why a Composite Filling?

1. Removes Cavities
2. Conservative Approach – highly conservative, technique sensitive approach allows for minimal removal of tooth structure compared to alternative options
3. Natural Appearance – modern techniques and development have not only enhanced the strength of composites, but has allows for greater customization of shade matching in order to color, shape, texturize, and polish and naturally blend the material to your natural tooth color
4. Durability – significant advancements have allowed for the creation of a material that is strong, making them optimal solutions for both posterior and anterior teeth

FAQs

1. Can fillings hurt?
   • Typically, no. But it is always important to review the exact findings with Dr. Vuong as no two cases are the same. However, it is very normal to experience some minor discomfort during and after the procedure.
     • The area is typically numbed with local anesthesia to ensure a painless, comfortable experience during the procedure.
     • Though there is an absence of pain, it is very normal to feel some light pressure as the area is being worked on. If you experience any pain, it is very important to raise your left hand to inform the dentist, and receive an additional amount of anesthesia.
     • Post-operative sensitivity is very normal on the treated tooth. This discomfort can range from minor discomfort to temperatures and pressure. This typically resolves on its own over time.
     • Follow after-care instructions provided to minimize additional discomfort.
2. Why does my filling still hurt even after you took out the cavity?
   • This depends, sometimes a cavity is so large that it encroaches close to the pulp chamber or the nerve of the tooth. Dr Vuong practices a very conservative approach to dentistry and typically aims to avoid additional procedures. However, the extent of decay can only be best visualized clinically, and due to that fact, sometimes it is important to understand that the damage has already been done to the nerve.
   • If you experience additional pain after a “large” filling, it is important to call in right away and receive a proper examination and diagnosis to figure out next steps.
3. My bite feels off after my fillings? What do I do?
   • Sometimes, it is important to know that while numb due to anesthesia, it may be difficult for you to tell that the filling feels off or the bite has changed. Most often, patients have a better gauge of their occlusion after the numbness has worn off.
   • Do not fret, if you notice that the bite feels off after a filling, it may just require additional adjustment – please call in at your earliest convenience to get that appointment scheduled! Do not wait too long as prolonged change can result in discomfort and sometimes pain.