Restore Your Smile at Brown and Baran Family Dentistry
Do you have a cavity or damaged tooth? Composite resin fillings might be the perfect solution to restore your smile. At Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, our Wilmington and Seaford, DE, dentists provide tooth-colored composite fillings as a safe, durable, and natural-looking alternative to traditional amalgam fillings.
Contact our Wilmington office at (302) 999-7600 or our Seaford office at (302) 536-7589 to schedule your appointment today!
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are a modern dental restoration option made from composite resin materials—a combination of plastic and finely ground powdered glass filler. These dental fillings bond seamlessly with your teeth, creating a durable, natural-looking restoration. Unlike silver fillings, composite resin fillings match the color of your natural tooth, making them virtually invisible.
Common uses for composite fillings:
- Restore decayed teeth affected by cavities or dental caries
- Repair chipped or cracked teeth
- Fill cavities in both anterior teeth (front teeth) and posterior teeth (back teeth)
- Improve the aesthetics of your smile by closing gaps (diastemas) or reshaping teeth
Benefits of Composite Dental Fillings
Choosing composite resin fillings offers several advantages over traditional dental amalgam or silver fillings:
- Natural Appearance: The tooth-colored resin blends with your natural tooth, creating a more natural appearance for your smile.
- Durability: Composite fillings are designed to withstand moderate pressure from chewing, making them an excellent choice for anterior and posterior composite restorations.
- Tooth Preservation: Composite fillings require minimal removal of natural tooth structure, preserving more of your original tooth.
- Bonding Strength: The adhesive properties of composite resin create a tight seal that helps prevent secondary caries or further tooth decay.
- Safe Materials: Unlike dental amalgam fillings, composite fillings are free from mercury vapor or other potential health risks.
Who Is a Candidate for Composite Fillings?
Most patients with decayed or damaged teeth can benefit from composite resin restorations. However, certain cases may require alternative dental restorations:
- Large Cavities: Extensive decay might require an inlay, onlay, or dental crown instead of a filling.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Patients who grind their teeth may need additional protection, such as a mouthguard, to prevent wear on the filling.
- High-Risk Areas: Teeth under constant stress or pressure might benefit from stronger restorative materials like ceramic or gold.
The Composite Filling Procedure
1. Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation at our Wilmington or Seaford dental office, Dr. Paul Brown or Dr. Chris Baran will evaluate your oral health, discuss any concerns, and determine whether a composite dental filling is the right option.
2. Tooth Preparation
Once you’re determined to be a candidate for tooth-colored fillings, we’ll prepare your affected tooth. After cleaning the affected tooth, we’ll remove any decay or damage. We use local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience.
3. Filling Placement
After preparing the tooth, we’ll apply the dental resin composite material in layers, hardening each layer using a light curing unit. This technique ensures a precise fit and secure bonding.
4. Shaping and Polishing
Once the filling is fully cured, we shape and polish it to blend seamlessly with your anatomical form and create a smooth finish. You’ll leave our dental office with a brand new, decay-free smile.
Caring for Your Composite Fillings
Maintaining your dental work ensures its longevity. Follow these tips for optimal care:
- Brush and Floss Daily: Proper oral hygiene prevents further tooth decay and protects your fillings.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Minimize biting into hard objects or sticky foods that could damage your fillings.
- Wear a Mouthguard: Protect your teeth if you grind them during sleep or engage in high-impact activities.
- Regular Checkups: Routine visits to our dental office allow us to monitor your fillings and address any potential issues early.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper care, composite fillings can last up to 10 years or more. Factors such as your dietary habits, oral hygiene, and whether you grind your teeth can affect their longevity. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly to ensure your restoration lasts and have them replaced as needed.
Yes! Composite resin fillings are non-toxic, safe, and widely endorsed by the American Dental Association as a reliable solution for cavities and dental restorations.
Most dental insurance plans cover composite fillings, especially for restoring permanent teeth. Contact your dentist’s office for help verifying your coverage or if they offer in-house financing.
Restore Your Smile with Natural-Looking Composite Fillings
At Brown and Baran Family Dentistry, we’re committed to providing the best restorative materials and techniques to ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful. If you’re in Wilmington, Seaford, or surrounding Delaware communities, trust our experienced dental team for lasting, high-quality care.
Call us today at (302) 999-7600 (Wilmington) or (302) 536-7589 (Seaford) to schedule your composite filling appointment and take the first step toward a healthier smile!
