Longevity and Care of Composite Fillings

Longevity and Care of Composite Fillings from Lalangas Family Dentistry in Dallas, TXComposite fillings are a commonly used option for fixing a variety of problems with the teeth. Your dentist may give you the choice between composite fillings and various other materials to use for your teeth. Each option comes with slightly different parameters for how long the filling will last and what you will need to do to take care of it. Understanding the benefits of a composite filling can help you decide if it is the right choice for you.

What is a composite filling?

A composite filling is made to look close to natural. Different from a metallic filling, which can be easily noticeable in the mouth, this kind of filling is tooth-colored and should blend in well. It can be matched with a patient's specific tooth-shade. This makes it a good choice for areas of the mouth that are easily noticeable.

Other than the color difference, composite fillings are very similar to other kinds of fillings. While they are frequently used for filling in cavities, they can also be used to repair teeth that are broken by patching chips or cracks.

Short-term care

Following the filling procedure, you may notice that the affected area is especially sensitive. Avoiding foods that are extremely hot or cold can help you avoid discomfort. This is a temporary side effect of the procedure that should start to fade with time. You should also be careful to avoid hard foods that may damage the filling. Stay away from behaviors such as chewing on ice cubes, pens, or other items that might cause damage.

Long-term care

Fillings in the teeth do not last forever, and eventually, you will need to visit your dentist to get them repaired or redone. You should expect a composite filling to last anywhere from five to 15 years. Proper care can extend the life of the filling. You should stay on top of your oral health routine, including brushing and flossing. It is important to be gentle with the teeth while still ensuring that they are properly cleaned. Your dentist may have suggestions for specific toothbrushes that can help with this.

If, after a few years, you start to notice new sensitivity or soreness around teeth that have had a filling, this can be a good indicator that it is time to get some work done on them. Keeping up with regular dentist appointments can also help keep track of where your fillings are at. Your dentist should be able to inform you when it is time to get the composite fillings repaired or redone.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Dallas, TX

Conclusion

Composite fillings look more natural than other options. You should expect them to last around 10 years. Proper care can help extend this lifespan. While you may experience some sensitivity shortly after getting a filling and when it is time to get it repaired, for the most part, it should not interfere with your day-to-day life.

Request an appointment or call Lalangas Family Dentistry at 972-534-6008 for an appointment in our Dallas office.

Related Posts

5 Benefits Of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are resin materials made with a plastic and glass mixture. Dentists began to use tooth-colored fillings in the 1960s, but they were too weak for the back teeth. Nowadays, the composite resin is strong enough for all teeth. Dentists may use the fillings to restore a decayed tooth or reshape a disfigured, cracked,…

Composite Fillings To Repair A Broken Tooth

Dental patients with chipped or broken teeth have more options for tooth repair than in the past, such as the use of composite fillings. These fillings can not only restore a tooth but also prevent the need for extraction, which can leave gaps in the smile and cause the remaining teeth to shift. They can…

How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?

If you have experienced a cavity at least once, you almost certainly have had a dental filling. Composite fillings are made of resin and glass instead of metal. This variety of filling has become increasingly popular for its cosmetic benefits.Composite fillings, like other varieties of fillings, are often recommended by dentists after you suffer a…

Related Posts

The All On  ® Process: What To Expect Before, During, And After

The All-On-4® Process: What To Expect Before, During, And After

All-on-4® dental implants are a full-arch restoration for missing teeth. With this option, restoring a full set of teeth only requires four dental implants. Patients who have experienced significant tooth loss in one or both arches may benefit from this procedure. You might want to learn more about the All-on-4 process and recovery if you…

Benefits Of Composite Fillings

5 Benefits Of Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are resin materials made with a plastic and glass mixture. Dentists began to use tooth-colored fillings in the 1960s, but they were too weak for the back teeth. Nowadays, the composite resin is strong enough for all teeth. Dentists may use the fillings to restore a decayed tooth or reshape a disfigured, cracked,…