Getting a cavity in a tooth is a common dental concern and often occurs due to poor oral hygiene or food and bacteria being trapped in a hard to reach area of the mouth. When a bacteria and infection affect a tooth, it needs to be cleansed as soon as possible, otherwise a cavity will form which compromises the structure of the tooth itself. And if this cavity is not treated and filled, it can lead to the infection completely penetrating the enamel and infecting the interior structure of the tooth. When a cavity gets this bad, a root canal is often required. However, if caught early enough, a simple cavity can be cleansed and a filling put in its place to protect the tooth.
What is a Composite Filling?
A composite filling is a treatment that protects the integrity of your tooth from infection and allows you to use the tooth like normal. Composite fillings differ from traditional fillings due to the material they are made from. With a composite filling, the material is made of a tooth-colored resin that blends in with the coloration of your tooth. This means there will not be any silver or metal coloration on the tooth itself. Composite fillings are just as strong as traditional amalgam fillings and last just as long. This gives you a restored smile that protects your teeth from infection and allows natural function again.
Benefits of Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are helpful for both your smile’s appearance and your overall oral health. Composite fillings blend in seamlessly with the color of your teeth, so you’ll be able to smile confidently without having to worry about people noticing any discoloration due to treatment. Additionally, when we place a filling, we cleanse your tooth of all bacteria and infection. The filling also protects the compromised area of your tooth from future bacteria and restores the structure, so you’ll be able to chew and bite comfortably with your tooth again.
If you would like to discuss getting a filling, schedule an appointment in our Old Greenwich, CT office today!
