FILLINGS
SMILE DESIGN DENTAL - FILLINGS
At Smile Design Dental, situated conveniently at Level 1, 9/22 Baildon St, Kangaroo Point, we are devoted to restoring your beautiful smile with the utmost precision and care. A significant part of this commitment is reflected in our choice of materials for dental fillings. We choose to use only the highest grade fillings created from white, tooth-coloured composite resin material, offering an aesthetically pleasing result that is far superior to the old-fashioned metal fillings.
Rediscover Your Smile With Composite Resin Fillings
In the ever-evolving field of dentistry, composite resin stands tall as a material that not only mimics the appearance of your natural teeth but also offers a robust and durable solution to tooth decay and cavities. Below, we delve deep into the world of composite resin fillings, helping you understand why they are the preferred choice at Smile Design Dental.
The Evolution From Metal To Composite Resin Fillings
In earlier times, metal amalgam fillings were a popular choice, but with advancements in dental technology, composite resin has emerged as a superior alternative, offering remarkable benefits that extend beyond just aesthetics.
What Is Composite Resin?
Composite resin is a tooth-coloured material made from a blend of plastic and glass, designed to restore the structural integrity of a tooth while preserving its natural appearance.
Benefits Of Choosing Composite Resin Fillings
NATURAL APPEARANCE
One of the standout features of composite resin fillings is their ability to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a solution that is virtually invisible to the naked eye.
PRESERVATION OF TOOTH STRUCTURE
Unlike amalgam fillings, composite resin fillings require the removal of a lesser amount of tooth structure, thereby preserving the natural strength and structure of your teeth. Composite fillings expand and contract at the same temperatures as your natural teeth, leading to lower instances of crack in the tooth itself. Metal fillings can last a long time, however eventually large cracks can form that can reach the nerve of your tooth or even the roots, making restoration options very difficult.
BONDED TO THE TOOTH
Composite resin fillings are bonded directly to the tooth, providing additional support and preventing breakage and insulating the tooth from extreme temperature changes.
The Procedure: What To Expect
CONSULTATION
Your journey towards a restored smile begins with a detailed consultation where our team will evaluate the extent of decay and chalk out a personalised treatment plan.
PREPARATION
Once the treatment plan is set, the next step involves preparing the tooth by removing the decayed part and cleaning the affected area thoroughly.
PLACEMENT OF FILLING
Post preparation, the composite resin is placed in layers, with each layer being cured using a ultra-violet light to harden the material.
SHAPING AND POLISHING
The final step involves shaping the resin to match the contour of your tooth, followed by polishing to prevent staining and early wear.
POST-PROCEDURE CARE
With your new filling in place, we provide detailed guidance on how to care for your teeth to ensure the longevity of the filling, including tips on oral hygiene and dietary recommendations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Composite resin fillings not only offer a more natural appearance, blending seamlessly with your existing teeth, but they also allow for a more conservative preparation which means preserving more of your natural tooth structure. Additionally, composite resin fillings bond directly to the tooth, providing added support and insulation against temperature changes, enhancing the tooth’s strength and durability. Large cracks into your healthy tooth are far less likely using composite resin.
The longevity of a composite resin filling can vary based on several factors including the location of the filling, the size of the cavity, and your oral hygiene habits. Generally, you can expect a composite resin filling to last for 5 to 10 years or even longer with good care. It’s important to attend regular check-ups at Smile Design Dental to ensure the optimum health of your fillings.
The procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Numbing the area around the affected tooth to minimise discomfort.
- Removal of decayed tissue and cleaning of the affected area.
- Placement of the composite resin material in layers, with each layer being hardened or “cured” using an ultra-violet special light.
- Shaping the composite resin to achieve a natural look and to ensure a comfortable bite.
- Polishing the filling to prevent staining and early wear.
The procedure is generally completed in a single visit, offering you a restored smile in no time.
Absolutely, if your old metal fillings are worn out, showing signs of cracking or break-down, or you prefer a more aesthetically pleasing option, you can opt to replace them with composite resin fillings. It’s a common procedure and can often improve both the appearance and functionality of the teeth.
Insurance coverage can vary greatly depending on your individual policy. While many insurance companies do cover composite resin fillings, it is always best to confirm with your specific provider to understand your coverage fully. Our team at Smile Design Dental can assist you in understanding your insurance benefits and run a quote for you if you bring your card to our reception team.
Caring for teeth with composite resin fillings involves regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups. It is also recommended to avoid hard and sticky foods that can potentially damage the fillings. Keeping up with your dental appointments at Smile Design Dental will help in monitoring the health of your fillings and ensuring their longevity. Though white composite fillings are less likely to cause large cracks than metal fillings, they can still break if under very heavy forces. If you have a heavy bite, or grind or clench, larger fillings may require a crown for additional protection.
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