Composite Fillings - Dr. Dalmao

Composite Fillings (White Fillings)

Composite fillings, also known as white fillings, are a common treatment, done by general dentists for dental caries (cavities). They can also be used to repair small chips and cracks in the teeth. Composite fillings are made of a durable composite resin material that’s tinted to match the patient’s natural tooth enamel. Dental fillings restore the shape, appearance, and strength of damaged teeth while preventing further decay.

Dental fillings play a crucial role in preserving teeth and preventing decay. While many people associate dental fillings with treating cavities, there are several other reasons to consider this service.

We are committed to providing high-quality, and affordable dental care, often covered by dental insurance. Consider dental fillings if you have:

A fractured tooth
Holes in your teeth
Cavities of various sizes
Discolored or stained teeth

Dental fillings are commonly used to treat chipped, cracked, or gapped teeth, as well as tooth cavities. The typical procedure involves several steps:

Application of an anesthetic to numb the treatment area.
Removal of decay and cavities from the affected teeth.
Restoration of the tooth using a composite or amalgam filling.
Adjustment and verification of your bite to ensure comfortable tooth alignment.

What Happens When You Get a Filling?

The dental filling procedure is relatively straightforward: First, the affected tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic, ensuring complete patient comfort. Then, decayed material is removed and the tooth is thoroughly cleaned before the resin composite is applied in layers. Between applications, a UV light is used to cure and harden the resin. Finally, the filling is shaped, refined, and polished until it’s virtually indistinguishable from the rest of the tooth. The entire filling process is completed during a single dental appointment, and the resulting restoration typically lasts for many years.