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Restorative Treatment: Composite Restorations
Placement of the composite restoration is a single visit procedure. Once the decay has been removed or the fracture site has been prepared, the area is thoroughly cleaned and dried with care in order to create the ideal environment for the new composite restoration. A single step new generation bonding agent is then applied to the formerly affected area. This material is light cured (hardened) utilizing a hand-held light emitting diode which will set this material in ten seconds. Sometimes if the decay or fracture was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied to protect and soothe the nerve. Next, the composite material is placed and shaped recreating the form and beauty of the tooth structure that had previously been lost. The material is then cured utilizing the diode light. Increments of composite may be applied and cured depending on the size of the defect or void being restored. Now that the material is hardened, the restoration will be shaped and polished via high speed finishing burs, discs or points. The bite or occlusion is then carefully and meticulously checked to match the precise strike pattern of the original tooth. While it is considered normal throughout the dental industry to experience post-operative temperature sensitivity with composite placement, we have found over the past year that the latest generation of bonding agents we utilize here at our office have virtually eliminated this problem. Our Restorative Treatment services include:
Click on one of the linked procedures to read more about our specific services.
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A composite restoration is a tooth colored resin the dentist bonds onto your existing tooth to repair decay, cracks or fractures. It can also be used to build up worn down teeth or to close gaps or spaces between the teeth. This “Bonding” is also referred to as “adhesive dentistry”, where the restoration actually sticks to the tooth via a “bonding agent” as opposed to amalgam (silver) restorations which relied purely on geometry to keep them in place. The advantages of bonded composite restorations are that they are tooth colored and can be closely matched to the color of your existing teeth. They are also more natural and aesthetically pleasing for use in the front teeth or the more visible areas of your dentition. Ultimately, they require less preparation of the damaged or decayed tooth, as they do not require the additional geometry necessary to hold the filling in place. The two-fold result is a) saved tooth structure and b) more conservative sized restorations. An added bonus is the fact that composites are light cured and set into place in as little as 10 seconds utilizing our latest light emitting diode technology, allowing the patient to eat immediately after their dental appointment. As with all dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday require future replacement. They are however, very durable and will last many years, resulting in a long-lasting beautiful smile. Remember, there are many types of filling materials available. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages. We will be happy to discuss the best options for restoring your teeth.