17
Jul
Protect Your Smile with Composite Resin Fillings
In decades past, most people with cavities got them filled with silver-colored amalgam fillings. In fact, you may even still have some of these old-school fillings in your mouth. They will need to be replaced at some point, and white composite resin fillings are one of the best options available to you.
What Are White Fillings For Cavities?
Thanks to advances in modern dentistry, today’s fillings look more natural than the silver fillings of the past. White fillings for cavities are made using composite material that has been shaded to match the color of your natural teeth. The material used to make composite resin fillings is an acrylic resin derived from glass filler that has been ground into powdered form.Â
How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?
In many cases, you may not know you have a cavity until you visit a dentist for a checkup or dental cleaning. However, there are some symptoms you can watch for that may indicate you have one or more cavities.
- Tooth color changes.
- Pain when chewing food or applying pressure to a tooth.
- Persistent halitosis (bad breath).
- Sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold beverages or foods.
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth.
What Are the Advantages of Composite Resin Fillings?
Composite resin fillings offer several advantages, the main one being that they look like your natural teeth. Equally important, they are durable and have a short recovery time. Also, these fillings can be completed in one visit to the dentist, and they’re used for small or large repairs.Â
How Long do Composite Resin Fillings Last?
With proper oral care, your composite resin fillings will last up to seven years. However, some patients report that their white fillings last for as long as ten years.Â
Can I Make Composite Fillings Last Longer?
Yes, you can. Practicing good oral health, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily, will help make your composite resin fillings last longer. Be sure to also schedule regular dental checkups with your dentist.Â
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (505) 390-1117 | Existing Patients: (505) 334-2000
Request An Appointment
How Do I Take Care of Composite Resin Fillings?
Once your dentist fills your cavity with a composite resin filling, you’ll need to eat soft foods for the first day. Following this guideline will help you avoid unnecessary discomfort, especially if you have any inflammation or soreness right after your procedure. It’s also a good idea to not eat foods that are extremely cold or hot to reduce the chance of sensitivity.Â
Caring for composite resin fillings is simple and straightforward. Daily brushing and flossing are some of the best things you can do, but there are also other things that will help you keep your fillings looking as good as new for a long time. For example, avoiding foods known for staining teeth will help your fillings maintain their color. This includes coffee, dark soda, red wine, and tea. Also, consider limiting foods with artificial food dyes.Â
Composite Resin Fillings in Aztec, NM: What Are My Options?
Dr. James Durfey and the team at Aztec Family Dental Care in Aztec, New Mexico, are here to help with all of your dentistry needs, including white fillings for cavities. Call us today at (505) 390-1117 to learn more or schedule an appointment.Â
