Composite fillings are needed when you have a cavity. A cavity is the result of tooth decay (damage to the tooth). Tooth decay can affect both the inner layer (dentin) and the outer coating (enamel) of a tooth.
To treat a cavity, our team at Atlanta Smiles in our Atlanta, dental office will remove the decayed portion of your tooth and fill it with another substance. That procedure is called a filling. There are two types of fillings that we use in our office, composite and amalgam.
A composite filling is the most common as the material can be closely matched to the color of your teeth. These fillings are durable, almost impossible to notice, work on small to medium-sized cavities, and typically involve removing less of a decayed tooth than you would during an amalgam filling procedure.
When can a composite filling be used for?
- Decayed tooth (i.e. cavity)
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Decreasing the gap between teeth
How it’s done
After your Atlanta dentist numbs the area where the filling is to be placed, they will remove any decayed portions. A substance is then applied to help open up the pores of your teeth for a stronger bond, and hardened and cured with a special light. Once this is complete, the filling is applied in thin layers to slowly form the complete filling. After the composite has hardened, the filling will be smoothened and polished to be comfortable and fit your bite.
How to prevent cavities in the future
To prevent cavities, follow the instructions of Dr. Stan Eisenberg and Dr. Cindy Bogdanoff. They recommend brushing at least twice a day for three minutes, and flossing daily. This routine coupled with regularly using mouthwash and getting your cleaning every six months will ensure you are doing everything in your power to fight tooth decay and avoid getting more cavities in the future.
Leaving cavities untreated will cause lots of harm over time. Make an appointment today with Dr. Bogdanoff and Dr. Eisenberg at our Atlanta Smiles dental practice in Atlanta Georgia by clicking here or calling (252) 651-4419.