If you've ever had a silver metal filling, you know how unsightly they can be! They appear when you're laughing and tend to pull away from the tooth, allowing decay and bacteria to return, which gives it a dark gray hue.
The good news is that tooth-colored composite fillings offer the durability you need from a dental filling while providing the beautiful aesthetics you want. They blend seamlessly with your tooth and smile. They also allow our dentist to preserve more natural tooth structure than we could with metal amalgam fillings.
Today, we'll talk about composite filling tooth preparation, curing, and polishing in Los Gatos so you know what to expect when it's time to have your tooth filled.
Understanding Composite Fillings
Composite resin comprises microparticles of glass and resin that we customize and blend to match your tooth. The process is straightforward, and Dr. Pagonis can typically complete it in one visit. Then, you can enjoy your newly restored, beautiful smile.
Step-By-Step Composite Filling Process in Los Gatos
When you get a dental filling, Dr. Pagonis will start by numbing the area around the tooth with a local dental anesthetic. This ensures that you won't feel anything during the procedure. Next, she'll prepare the tooth for its filling by etching the surface so the composite resin can adhere to it. Then, she'll expertly blend the composite resin to match your tooth and apply it. Composite resin is easy to mold and shape, and after Dr. Pagonis applies it, she'll shape the filling to your tooth and polish it for a fine finish.
Composite resin bonds directly to the tooth, making it durable and less susceptible to pulling away from the tooth, like metal does.
Do you need a composite filling procedure in Los Gatos? Contact our team at (408) 399-3920 for more information on how we can help.