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Dental fillings are very long lasting, but they are not a permanent solution. Over time, fillings may absorb moisture, causing them to swell and separate from the tooth. This can leave your tooth exposed to decay and damage.
A common concern for old dental fillings is the appearance of the dental amalgam. Fortunately, composite fillings are available in our Omaha general dentistry office that can restore and seal your tooth with a color-matched resin.
To schedule an appointment with The Dentists, please call one of our Omaha offices, Hillsborough: 402-445-4647, Village Pointe: 402-505-7474, Ralston Square: 402-733-4441, or Dundee: 402-502-5593 today.
The Composite Fillings Process
When a dental filling needs to be replaced, the process is much like the initial procedure of filling a tooth. The old filling is removed, along with any further decay, and the tooth is shaped to receive the new composite resin filling. A gel is applied that roughens the surfaces of the tooth where the resin will adhere to ensure a strong, long-lasting bond. The filling is carefully molded to the shape of the tooth and a high-intensity light is used to harden the resin. Once the resin is set, the tooth and filling are polished to create a smooth surface like your natural teeth.
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"By far the best experience at a dental office that I have ever had. From the office staff to Dr. Amy everyone was a pleasure to be around and the degree of personal care was excellent. This from someone who does not like to go to the dentist. I would highly recommend this office and staff to anyone looking for a new dental office to call home. Thanks to The Dentists at Ralston, R.S. :-)"
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Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Composite fillings are recommended by our experienced general dentists because they offer many benefits over traditional metal amalgam fillings. Some of the advantages of composite filings include:
- Superior bonding to the structure of the tooth
- Beautiful and natural appearance
- Less damaging to the tooth structure
- Additional restorative uses including chipped, worn, or broken teeth
Caring for Composite Fillings
Composite fillings cannot fall out because they are chemically bonded to the tooth. With proper tooth preparation, they can protect your tooth from decay for many years. Keeping up with your great oral hygiene routine is all that is needed to keep your composite fillings looking their best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is a Good Candidate for Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are ideal for patients who need dental fillings but also want them to look natural. These fillings will benefit patients who have a cavity or tooth decay in its early stages that need to be treated.
If your tooth decay has gone untreated for an extended amount of time, you may not qualify for dental fillings at all and may need a different kind of dental procedure to heal your tooth decay at a deeper level. Patients with gum disease may also be advised to bring their gums to optimal health before getting composite fillings.
What Is the Success Rate of the Composite Fillings?
Placing composite fillings is a very common procedure. Some studies suggest these fillings have a survival rate above 90% after three years and above 89% after seven years.
Myths and Misconceptions About Composite Fillings
People have many misconceptions regarding composite filings. However, they are not always true. These misconceptions can include the following:
“Composite fillings need frequent replacements.”
Although composite resin doesn't last as long as metal fillings, it can still have a five to ten year lifespan.
“Composite filings are toxic to cells.”
Resin composites were once believed to release substances that posed a risk to surrounding cells. However, subsequent research has shown that newer materials and dental techniques have improved. The FDA maintains these fillings are safe and free of mercury that may be found in alternatives.
“Composite fillings are just for fixing cavities.”
Dentists can use composite fillings for creating veneers, repairing chips in teeth, filling in receding gums, and resurfacing teeth that have worn down.
Risks of Composite Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings are generally low risk. However, they may be more prone to chipping and wear. For this reason, they might not be as appropriate for those who grind their teeth a lot. Some dentists avoid applying these fillings on teeth in the back of your mouth due to the increased pressure they'll undergo when you chew.
Smaller fillings are likely to last longer. If you smoke or eat a lot of acidic or sugary foods, you may cause faster wear. Keeping your mouth clean can increase how long your fillings last.
Will Receiving Composite Fillings Hurt?
Getting composite fillings is on par with other fillings regarding pain during the procedure. We can discuss your pain tolerance and preferences to recommend options like numbing agents.
One good thing is that although you may spend more time in the chair (about 20 minutes longer), it's possible to place these fillings with less removal of your underlying teeth. It's also worth noting that composite fillings may be less temperature-sensitive than alternatives like ceramics.
How Much Do Composite Fillings Cost?
The cost of getting tooth-colored fillings in Omaha, NE, varies. Some factors to consider include how many teeth you need to fill in and what kind of damage requires correction. Composite fillings generally cost more than amalgam.
Reading patient reviews of white-filling dentists in Omaha, Bellevue, and Lincoln can help you anticipate what you'll pay. We offer payment options and financing to ease the financial burdens of this procedure. Getting a filling early is usually less costly than waiting until the problem worsens.
What to Expect After Receiving Composite Fillings
Receiving dental fillings is typically not extremely painful, as most dentists use a numbing gel on a patient’s gums for optimal comfort during the procedure. After the procedure, patients may experience increased tooth sensitivity and prolonged numbness from the numbing gel, but no pain overall. In the first few days after receiving fillings, you may have to avoid certain foods and drinks such as hard or sticky foods.
Schedule a Consultation for Tooth-Colored Fillings
If you are in need of dental fillings but want the most natural-looking solution, don’t hesitate to contact us at Hillsborough Family Dentistry today. To schedule a consultation with one of our highly experienced dentists, click here. With four convenient locations in Omaha, Nebraska, we can meet all of your general dentistry needs. Find a location nearest you.