Getting a cavity filled is one of the most common dental procedures. In the past, silver fillings were the tried and true material of choice for many dentists. However, composite fillings are now becoming the gold standard at most dental clinics.
The goal of Cosmetic Dentistry In West Point, GA is to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile, and composite fillings allow just this. There are many benefits of choosing this material over the more outdated silver filling material.
Matches Natural Teeth
Many patients avoided dental fillings because the once-popular silver material was very noticeable in the mouth. Composite material, however, is the same color as natural teeth. Fillings are now practically invisible to the naked eye.
Composite fillings are very commonly used on front teeth because of this reason. This material can also be used to reshape chipped teeth, without being noticeable to others. Website Domain has examples of composite fillings being used to repair damaged teeth.
Require Less Drilling
In order for a dentist to place a silver filling, a substantial amount of tooth structure needs to be removed. This is even true for very small cavities. Composite fillings, on the other hand, require less tooth to be removed.
Less drilling means the overall tooth remains stronger in the long run. If the filling ever needs to be replaced in the future, there is less risk of needing a root canal. Patients also appreciate spending a shorter amount of time in the dental chair.
Bonds to the Tooth
Composite fillings are chemically bonded to treated teeth. The dentist uses a special light to cure and harden the filling once it is placed. The bonding of the material helps to improve the overall structural integrity of weakened teeth.
It’s very important for the dentist to do a bite check before the patient leaves the office. Once the composite filling has hardened, it will no longer mold to the patient’s bite. A dentist will simply adjust the height of the filing and make any necessary adjustments.
Composite fillings are just one way that cosmetic dentistry in West Point, GA has been able to improve the appearance and health of many smiles. These tooth-colored fillings bond to the teeth and require less drilling. There is no longer any reason to put off getting a cavity filled.
