Composite Dental Fillings
No Mercury-Containing Amalgam Fillings at Our SE Portland Dental Office
Fillings are performed to remove decay and replace the affected tooth structure. It is called a “filling” because new material fills the hole after removing the decay.
The filling material we use is a resin composite that will match the natural color of your tooth. When caught early enough through regular dental examinations and X-rays, cavities can be treated easily. Contact us to schedule your appointment today.
Why Choose Composite Fillings
Our SE Portland Dentist only places composite resins or tooth-colored fillings. Enough concern has been raised over the mercury in amalgam, and we do not believe it is a healthy choice for our patients.
In the past, amalgam fillings were thought to be inert. This would mean no mercury was released once the filling was placed in the tooth. In recent years, however, sophisticated tests have changed this view. Very small amounts of mercury in the form of vapor can be released as the amalgam filling wears.
Removing Amalgam Fillings
Should you choose to have your amalgam fillings removed, our office utilizes a high-powered evacuation system to remove any excess amalgam from your mouth. We also have an amalgam reclamation system to keep harmful materials from entering the municipal sewer system.
Mint Dental’s Dental Filling Process
We keep the process of getting a filling as simple and pain-free as possible! You’ll first have a dental exam and a consultation, where our dentist will assess your teeth and determine if a filling is necessary.
If the dentist determines that a filling would protect your smile, your filling appointment will unfold in these steps.
Remove Decay
You’ll first receive a local anesthetic to numb the area for comfort. Then, the affected area will be thoroughly cleaned, and the decay will be removed to prepare your tooth for the filling.
Place the Filling
The dentist will layer composite resin to rebuild the affected area, shaping it to fit your tooth and hardening it with a curing light.
Bite Adjustment and Final Polishing
To ensure your filling fits comfortably, the dentist will adjust the surface of the filling as necessary to shape it to your needs. Then, the filling is polished to create a smooth, natural-looking layer of protection for your tooth.
FAQs About Portland Dental Fillings
How Can I Prevent Cavities?
Ultimately, the best dental filling is no dental filling, and prevention is the best medicine. You can dramatically decrease your risk of cavities and other dental diseases simply by:
- brushing your teeth after every meal with fluoride toothpaste
- flossing daily
- eating a balanced diet
- visiting the dentist regularly
How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?
Composite fillings generally last 10 years or longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. Some factors that play a role in how long they last are the size and location of your filling and habits such as teeth grinding or clenching.
Do Composite Fillings Stain?
Like natural teeth, composite fillings may stain over time due to certain foods or drinks or tobacco products. Regular brushing and flossing habits can help prevent staining and limit common culprits such as coffee, wine, sodas, and other known stain-causing consumables.
Can I Eat After Getting a Filling?
Yes! Composite fillings are hardened with our curing light before you leave the office, allowing you to eat right after. However, caution is recommended due to the local anesthetic used for the procedure. The numbing agent can make chewing difficult until it wears off.
Will My Insurance Cover Dental Fillings?
Most insurances will cover all or a portion of the costs associated with dental fillings. Contact our Insurance Coordinator for more information about insurance coverage.
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