Are Composite Fillings Your Best Choice for Cavity Treatment?

Patient receiving composite tooth filling at Lansing MI dental clinic for cavity repair

Sadly, cavities are so common that most people have had at least one at some point in their lives. The good news is that cavities are easy to treat if you act quickly. At Dr. Edward Liu Sedation and Implant Dentistry, serving residents in Holt and Lansing, Michigan, we treat decay with composite resin tooth fillings. Composite fillings are preferred by most dentists today for many reasons. These FAQs explain more about composite fillings.

What is a composite filling?

Composite fillings are tooth-colored restorations used to treat cavities. They’re made of resin material mixed with powdered glass, with no mercury or metal added. These fillings can be color-matched to the color of your teeth for a natural-looking appearance.

How are composite fillings placed?

Dr. Edward Liu will start by removing the decay and cleaning your tooth to prep it for a filling. Then we’ll apply the resin material in layers, filling the hole left by the cavity. The layers are hardened in place with a special light. When all the layers are applied, Dr. Liu will shape the filling for a natural look, check your bite, and then polish your tooth. Depending on the location and size of your filling, your procedure may take 30 to 60 minutes to complete.

Is the procedure painful?

No, dental fillings aren’t painful, as your dentist will remove any decay and bacteria that was built up. Then Dr. Edward Liu will place a small amount of tooth-colored composite resin into the cleaned cavity and, once the material hardens, carefully shape and polish the filling.

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What are some of the advantages of getting a composite filling?

Composite fillings have additional advantages besides natural-looking aesthetics. The filling doesn’t require a lot of drilling for its application, which helps save more of your natural tooth. It bonds directly with your tooth enamel to seal out bacteria and decay. This tight bond protects your tooth from future cavities and minimizes sensitivity.

What should you avoid after getting a composite filling?

Composites stain fairly easily, so you should avoid stain-causing foods and drinks that can darken their appearance. To protect your filling from chipping or cracking, you’ll need to avoid hard foods and stop bad habits of chewing on ice and using your teeth as tools.

How long do composite fillings last?

If you practice good oral hygiene and are mindful of what you eat, your composite filling can last 5 to 7 years. Routine dental cleanings will also help keep your filling in good shape long-term.

Besides cavity treatment, what else can composite fillings be used for?

Composite resin fillings can also be used as cosmetic bonding to improve your smile’s appearance. Through bonding, Dr. Liu can repair chipped or broken teeth, close small tooth gaps, reshape oddly sized teeth, or realign slightly crooked teeth to make your smile appear straight and even.

Who offers the best tooth filling treatment near me?

For prompt and effective composite filling cavity treatment in Holt or Lansing, MI, we’ve got you covered at Dr. Edward Liu Sedation and Implant Dentistry. Contact us at (517) 777-8878 for all your dental care needs.

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Dr. Edward Liu

Edward Liu, D.D.S., is a highly accomplished general and cosmetic dentist with over two decades of experience. A graduate of the University of Michigan, School of Dentistry, he earned his doctorate in 2000. Dr. Liu is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry and one of only 407 dentists in the U.S. and Canada to hold this title. He also achieved Mastership from the Academy of General Dentistry, an honor held by only 1% of dentists. His expertise in dental implants and sedation dentistry, combined with 1600 hours of continuing education, ensures exceptional patient care.