Composite Fillings

What is a Composite Filling?
A composite filling, also known as a white filling or tooth-colored filling, is a form of dental restoration that is used to repair a decayed, fractured or cracked tooth. This is achieved by removing the affected portion of the tooth, cleaning the tooth itself and then filling it with a composite material.
Composite, tooth-colored fillings are made of materials that blend with the appearance of your natural tooth because the composite materials it is made from.
At Access Dental in Kelowna, when you receive a composite filling, your dentist will achieve this by applying the composite resin using a layering technique. This ensures long-lasting results and greater durability. After applying the composite, a special light is used to harden it against the tooth.
Advantages of Composite Fillings
Every type of dental filling has its purpose. The one you select depends on your case and specifications, which will be discussed during your consultation with a dentist at Access Dental in Kelowna. There are many advantages to selecting composite fillings, some of which include the following:
  • They can be used for molars and premolars because of their ability to withstand chewing and grinding.
  • Composite fillings match well with the natural color of your teeth, allowing it to blend in with the rest of your teeth.
  • They can be fixed if damaged. Most other types of fillings can’t be repaired.
  • They bond and harden faster than traditional fillings.
  • Getting a composite filling in St. Albert, AB T8N 5J9 is not a rigorous process; it can be done in one visit. And in addition to that, composite fillings do not require much preparation. Only a small percentage of the tooth structure needs to be removed before filling in space. With an amalgam filling, more of your tooth structure needs to be removed to make the amalgam bond well.
How is it Different from Traditional Filling?
An amalgam filling consists of metals like gold, silver, tin, and mercury. Most metal fillings are made with either silver or gold, and mercury is used to make them bond well with the teeth. Metal amalgam fillings in Kelowna are either gold or silver colored, depending on the metal used, so they are not the best choice if you wish to maintain a more natural teeth appearance.
For those who have metal allergies, composite fillings are a better option that will not result in an allergic reaction. Some patients prefer traditional fillings because of their relatively low price. However, this should not be the only factor to consider.
Reasons for Composite Fillings
Before you visit a Kelowna dentist, it is useful to be informed about your options and whether or not you should get a composite filling or a traditional metal one. You would be recommended a composite filling if you want to achieve any of the following outcomes:
  • Restore a decayed tooth.
  • Close the tiny, irregular gaps between your teeth.
  • Restore worn-out enamel.
  • Fix a broken tooth.
How to Prevent Cavities: 
  1. Cavities are very common among children. There are many different factors that affect a child’s likelihood of developing a cavity. Just like snowflakes, no two mouths are the same; some children will just happen to be more prone to cavities than others. Still, there are many ways to work towards preventing cavities. Here are a few examples:
  2. Brush and floss your child’s teeth after eating or drinking. We recommend a minimum of twice per day for all ages. 
  3. Twice a year dental cleanings and check-ups for all children and adults.
  4. Choose dental sealants for your child. They are recommended for all school-aged children, and they can prevent cavities and tooth decay on the back molars. Keep scrolling to learn more.
  5. Give your child water rather than juice to sip on. Constant exposure to sweet drinks helps bacteria to produce more acid and break down tooth enamel.
  6. Ask your dentist about oral rinses. Some children may benefit from fluoridated rinses to prevent cavity development.
  7. Avoid sticky foods. These foods will get stuck in the grooves of their teeth. When food sits against the tooth for prolonged periods, bacteria will produce more acid and cause tooth breakdown. 
  8. Feed your child lots of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies increase saliva productions and help to wash away particles of food.
  9. Choose sugar-free gum for your child. Gum helps to stimulate saliva productions and keep your mouth free of food particles.