Dental Fillings, Lisle NY

Enjoy a More Natural Smile with Composite Dental Fillings

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic health conditions. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent it, and in cases where decay is unavoidable, a dental filling is an affordable, natural-looking, and safe solution. The fillings we are able to place today have excellent aesthetics and are long-lasting for individuals who maintain good oral hygiene. 

Dental Fillings—The Best Solution for Tooth Restoration

At Whitney Point Dental, we rely on high-quality materials, latest technology, and advanced techniques to create restorations for our patients. Our goal is to create results that are designed to blend with your natural dentition. 

How do I know if I need a filling?

We take x-rays regularly to check for decay between your teeth and perform visual exams to check for cavities on the biting surfaces of your teeth and in areas around the gumline. You may have cavities and not be aware of it, tooth decay does usually cause pain or sensitivity unless it is very extensive. It is important to treat these areas with fillings before decay progresses. If cavities progress your tooth may need more extensive treatment to allow the tooth to be restored.  When you come in for an evaluation, Dr. Blitz and the dental staff with discuss appropriate dental treatment for your situation.

Cavity Prevention — What can I do to prevent the need for a filling?

The best way to fight cavities and maintain healthy gums and teeth is to keep up on your daily habit of proper oral hygiene. Here are 5 ways to ward off tooth decay and prevent cavities:

• Come in to our office for a comprehensive oral exam regular cleanings and x-rays.
• Brush twice a day, after meals, and use mouthwash.
• Drink more water and cut back on sugary and acidic drinks.
• Develop the habit of flossing every night.
• Avoid smoking.

The Process of dental fillings

The procedure for placing a composite resin dental filling is a routine treatment that we do every day at Whitney Point Dental. Here’s how it works:

1. The tooth is isolated from saliva to keep it dry.
2. Any dental decay is removed.
3. An etchant and a bonding agent are applied, followed by the composite resin.
4. A special light is used to harden each layer of composite resin material.
5. After the tooth is filled, the composite resin is shaped to resemble a real tooth.
6. Finally, the restoration is smoothed and polished to accommodate your bite.

What are composite resin fillings?

Composite resin fillings are the most common alternative to dental amalgam. They are sometimes called “tooth-colored” or “white” fillings because of their color. Composite resin fillings are made of a type of plastic (an acrylic resin) reinforced with filler. Composite resin is often placed in layers to build up the final restoration, then cured with an “ultra-violet light”. This light energy speeds up a chemical reaction of the components causing the soft material to harden and bond to the tooth. This material is considered safe. The color (shade) of composite resins can be customized to closely match surrounding teeth. This filling material  can be shaped to resemble a real tooth. It is usually hard to tell that a tooth has even been filled!

Composite resin fillings have several advantages. The “white” color is preferred by many patients due to its ability to blend in with surrounding teeth.

Benefits of Composite Resin Restorations

•  White/natural-looking color
• Chemically bonds to tooth structure (does not require mechanical bond like amalgam)
• Will adhere to areas that do not allow mechanical retention

Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contains fluoride, it can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, another advantage that reinforces gum health.

metal/amalgam fillings

The American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs has concluded that both amalgam and composite materials are considered safe and effective for tooth restoration. In some cases amalgam restorations are still the ideal choice. If this is the case for your restoration the option will be discussed prior to restoration completion.

Benefits of amalgam  Restorations

• Does not need to be kept dry when it is placed (excellent choice for some posterior teeth)
• Quick placement
• Excellent longevity and strength