White fillings are a common dental procedure used to repair and restore teeth damaged by decay, cracks, or fractures. When a tooth has a cavity or minor structural damage, the dentist removes the decayed or affected portion of the tooth and then fills the area with a filling material. This process restores the tooth’s shape, function, and appearance while also preventing further decay by sealing off the spaces where bacteria can enter.
Fillings are a straightforward and effective way to address minor tooth damage and decay, helping maintain dental health and function.
What are White Fillings?
At McOmber Dental, we only utilize the best available products for our patients. While amalgam (silver/metal) fillings used to be the predominant material for dental restorations, our practice uses white fillings made from “composite resin,” a glass and resin mixture with microparticles for strength. These composite resin fillings not only look better and more natural, but they are also more effective.
The Benefits of White Fillings
Our composite resin fillings require less drilling, meaning more of the natural tooth structure is preserved. Because of their color, white fillings are also indistinguishable from the appearance of natural teeth, allowing them to seamlessly blend in with your smile without having to worry about the metallic appearance typically associated with traditional amalgam restorations.
Dr. McOmber most commonly uses Esthet-X HD composite resin, made by Dentsply Sirona in America, which is one of the most highly-rated materials available to dentists worldwide. This product has an ideal combination of beauty and strength. It is also polishable to a high shine and very natural looking. In addition, Esthet-X HD is also free of dissociable, easily released, or ionized Bisphenol A (BPA), which is an endocrine-disrupting chemical that is contained in other, less desirable composite materials.
What Happens During a Tooth Filling?
After the cavity is removed and cleaned, the tooth is treated with a bonding agent and then filled with composite resin. The material is then cured using a blue wavelength light, which fully hardens it, allowing patients to chew immediately. That said, although there are no restrictions about eating or drinking after receiving a white filling, it’s important to wait for any numbing effects to wear off before you do.
How Long Does a Filling Take?
Receiving a filling normally isn’t a long or difficult process. The procedure usually takes less than an hour, though the total time may vary depending on the size of the cavity, the amount of cavities, or the location(s). However, with virtually no recovery time after the filling has been hardened, most patients will be back to their daily lives before they know it.
Contact McOmber Dental for Cavity Treatment
If you think you’re suffering from a cavity or otherwise in need of a dental consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our dedication to using the highest-quality materials and cutting-edge techniques ensures that each filling not only blends flawlessly with your natural teeth but also stands the test of time. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or consultation.