Composite Fillings

Prompt tooth repair is an important component to keeping your smile looking and feeling its best. If you schedule your dental visit at the first sign of sensitivity or pain, you are far more likely to achieve optimal results through the most conservative treatment. When pain is ignored, the oral bacteria that cause cavities have the opportunity to move inward and infect the innermost tooth material.

Early care for cavities typically means restoration with a dental filling. Dr. Valerie Fuller understands that her patients from Marietta and surrounding areas are concerned not only about the return of functionality and relief from discomfort but also want to know their smile will remain attractive. Tooth repair that involves composite fillings can accomplish this and more.

Composite fillings are also referred to as tooth-colored fillings. This is because composite resin, a combination of quartz and plastic, is mixed to match the shade of surrounding teeth. The natural appearance achieved with composite filings makes this form of treatment preferred by many patients. In addition to a naturally beautiful result, however, restoration with composite resin offers a number of significant advantages.

Containing only plastic and quartz, composite resin fillings are considered metal-free, which differentiates them from amalgam fillings. For individuals with a metal allergy or a preference for metal-free restorations, composite fillings make perfect sense. Composites are also ideal for those interested in highly conservative care.

Restoration with composite resin takes a bit longer in terms of placement. This is simply because the technique differs from that of amalgam filling placement. The process, however, is considered more conservative by some because composite fillings, unlike amalgams, are held in place through a bonding process rather than mechanical retention. In order to hold an amalgam filling, the tooth must be slightly restructured. With the composite filling, only tooth material that has been directly damaged need to be removed.

Ultimately, Dr. Fuller would prefer to help each of her patients avoid cavities altogether rather than plan restoration with the most suitable type of tooth filling. Working together, our team empowers patients to understand what is needed to maintain optimal oral health. We are happy to demonstrate how to brush and floss for maximum efficiency, and discuss with our patients the various factors that increase the risk of tooth decay so that they may be avoided as much as possible.

Call the Marietta office of Dr. Valerie Fuller at (770) 977 7757 to LOVE. LIFE. SMILE. BRIGHT.