Posterior Composite Fillings
Procedure Purpose
Composite resins are tooth-colored, plastic materials (made of glass and resin) that are used both as fillings and to repair defects in the teeth. Because they are tooth-colored, it is difficult to distinguish them from natural teeth. Composites are often used on the front teeth where a natural appearance is important. They can be used on the back teeth as well depending on the location and extent of the tooth decay.
Procedure Overview
Composite fillings are made of a tooth-colored, composite resin. This resin is strong, durable, and aesthetic. Our dental team will gently remove the decay and place your filling to help prevent further damage.
FAQs
They are white fillings that look like the natural color of the tooth
There are several reasons:Â
- They bond directly to the tooth which means that less tooth structure is removed.Â
- They harden immediately after they have been cured by UV light, unlike silver fillings.Â
- They are durable.
We do not offer silver fillings in our office. Our doctor’s recommended course of treatment is white, tooth-colored fillings.
When you check out, the business team will be able to accurately answer any questions for you.
That is the amount your insurance will pay for composite fillings. Your insurance also pays 80% of the silver fillings but we do not offer them in our office. A portion of the amount is for the nitrous, which is not covered by your insurance.
We try to save all teeth because baby teeth are critical in maintaining the space in order for permanent teeth to erupt properly. Kids typically don’t lose their last baby tooth until around age 11 or 12.
Follow-Up Instructions
- It is normal to experience hot, cold, and pressure sensitivity following the procedure as teeth require some time to heal after removal of tooth structure. These symptoms will lessen within a few days or weeks. As long as the sensitivity continues to decrease, there is no need for concern. However, if sensitivity does increase, contact our office.
- If the patient was given local anesthetic, then refer to local anesthetic post-op instructions for numbness.
- The gums may feel tender and/or the anesthetic injection site may feel sore. Rinse with warm salt water and/or take Tylenol or Motrin as needed to decrease discomfort.
- The filling will be completely set after the appointment so the patient may be able to eat afterwards but if numb, avoid chewing on the numb side of the mouth.
Taking care of dental fillings:
- Resin fillings are prone to recurrent decay (new decay around the filling margin). Continue to brush twice daily and floss once daily as well as regular dental visits. This will increase the longevity of the new filling as well as prevent cavities and allow the dentist to detect new cavities.
- Avoid biting into any hard foods such as peanut brittle, frozen candy bars, ice, or anything else that can put pressure on your teeth as this can cause damage to your fillings.
- Never use your teeth as tools! Do not use teeth to open bags, pull on anything, or hold objects.
- Do not bite fingernails, chew on pencils, or anything else that can cause pressure or trauma to teeth.Â
- Limit drinking and/or eating dark colored beverages and foods as this may cause staining and discoloration to the resin material
Whether an accident happens during our normal business hours or not, know that you can call us and have your child treated promptly.
Call our office at 757-484-8262. If it is after hours or on the weekend, one of our doctors or a team member will get back to you.