Composite Fillings in Carmel, NY

When a cavity develops, it is important to find and treat it as early as possible. If left untreated, a cavity will continue to worsen and spread until the tooth needs a more complex restoration such as a crown or root canal. Eventually, the tooth may need to be pulled, requiring a bridge or a dental implant to replace it. Fortunately, though, if significant decay is not yet present, we can generally save the tooth with a simple filling.

Metal amalgam fillings were once the treatment of choice. Today, though, we prefer to use natural-looking, tooth-colored composite filling material. Composite fillings are not as affected by heat and cold as metal fillings, so they are less likely to cause tooth sensitivity. They are easier to penetrate with dental X-rays, so we can quickly catch any new decay that develops on the filled tooth. They look realistic, making it difficult for anyone to notice that your tooth was filled. In addition, older metal fillings contained mercury. Although these fillings have not been scientifically shown to cause any problems, many people prefer to have them replaced with composite fillings.

If you think you may need a filling, or are simply looking for a dentist you can trust, we invite you to call Carmel Dental Associates today. We look forward to earning your trust.

With diligent oral hygiene habits and visits to the dentist every six months for dental cleanings and comprehensive oral evaluations, composite fillings can last a decade or more. That said, the lifespan of a dental filling can vary depending on its location in the mouth and the size of the filling.

Composite fillings are made with resin, a combination of ceramic and plastic that can be made in shades to white that precisely match the rest of a tooth for a seamless appearance.

Composite fillings are usually considered the preferred filling for cavities these days. They are mercury-free, they are less noticeable than amalgam (silver) fillings, and they allow us to preserve more of your natural tooth.

A composite filling can be a long-lasting restoration for a tooth that has had a cavity, but long-lasting is not quite the same as permanent—most composite fillings will need to be replaced at some point. There aren’t any dental filling options that can be guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Composite fillings are cured with a UV light, which means they are fully hardened right in our office and you can eat and drink as soon as you leave. Still, it’s a good idea to wait until the local anesthetic wears off so you don’t injure yourself when chewing.

We use local anesthetic to numb your tooth and the area surrounding it before we begin any work, so getting a filling is not painful. Once the anesthetic wears off, it’s common to have some sensitivity and tenderness at the site for a day or two after your procedure.

Call 845-225-2224 to schedule your appointment.