Dental FillingsAn Overview
A dental filling is a type of restoration used to protect teeth that have been affected by cavities or other trauma. When placed properly, a dental filling can stop a cavity from progressing and prevent future damage to the tooth. At our Pennington dental office, we use tooth colored materials to restore teeth to a natural look and function. Our dentists may either select tooth-colored resin or porcelain, depending on your condition.
Patients no longer have to worry about unsxightly and uncomfortable metal dental fillings. We use tooth colored materials for restorations that are highly esthetic and virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. Compared to metal fillings, “white” dental fillings offer as good or better long term protection for teeth.
Dental Fillings What to Expect
Composite Resin Dental Fillings
Resin dental fillings are made from a biocompatible composite material available in a range of tooth colored shades. Generally, resin dental fillings are used to restore teeth with cavities, minor chips, or other minor damage.
With proper care, resin dental fillings can be very long lasting. It is important to note that resin dental fillings are not permanent and may require some special care or maintenance.
This procedure is also known as direct restoration because the composite material is applied directly to the tooth and sculpted into form. It is important to see a skilled cosmetic dentist for the most natural looking results that are indistinguishable from natural teeth. A resin dental filling can be placed in a single visit.
Porcelain Dental Fillings
Porcelain dental fillings add strength to teeth in a similar fashion as dental crowns. They are categorized as either dental inlays or dental onlays. An onlay covers the entire biting surface of the tooth, while an inlay is contained within the contours of the tooth.
Porcelain dental fillings are typically used for patients with more significant tooth decay or damage. Damage would not be extensive enough to warrant a dental crown. Inlays and onlays are very long lasting. Like any type of dental restoration, routine care is needed to ensure optimal esthetics and function.
While a resin dental filling is type of direct restoration, a porcelain dental filling is an indirect restoration. Porcelain dental fillings are typically fabricated in our office using innovative CEREC technology. Using CAD/CAM software, an inlay or onlay is created to fit the exact contours of your tooth. The restoration is then permanently bonded to the tooth using a special adhesive.
What To Do If You Have A Broken or Missing Dental Filling
If you have a broken dental filling or missing dental filling, contact our office as quickly as possible to schedule treatment. We reserve time in our dentists schedules to treat dental emergencies such as lost or broken dental fillings.
Your dental filling can be replaced easily. In most cases, there is no benefit to saving your old dental filling. Do not attempt to temporarily secure your dental filling with glue or other adhesive.
Continue to clean around the tooth until your visit, gently brushing inside the hole where the filling was lost. Over the counter pain relievers can help to alleviate any pain or sensitivity you may be experiencing.
Schedule An Appointment
If you’re searching for a family dentist in the Hopewell Township, NJ and Pennington, NJ area, Family & Spa Dentistry is accepting new patients. Call us at 609-303-3058 to Schedule an appointment with Dr. Vagnozzi-Bucci today to learn more about how we can help you enjoy and maintain a beautiful smile.
