Composite Fillings in Hilliard, OH

Restore Your Smile at Fishinger Dental 

Cavities and tooth decay are common dental issues, but restoring your smile is easier than ever with composite dental fillings. At Fishinger Dental in Hilliard, OH, we provide natural-looking, durable composite fillings to restore decayed or damaged teeth with minimal disruption to your natural tooth structure.

Contact our Hilliard dental practice today at (614) 771-6060 to schedule your appointment and experience the difference composite fillings can make for your smile!

What Are Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are made of a durable mixture of plastic and powdered glass filler. This material bonds directly to your tooth, creating a restoration that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Composite fillings are versatile and can address various dental concerns, including:

• Filling cavities caused by dental caries (tooth decay)
• Repairing chipped or cracked teeth
• Improving the appearance of teeth with gaps (diastemas)
• Restoring teeth damaged by wear or moderate pressure

The Benefits of Composite Dental Fillings

Composite fillings offer a range of benefits that make them a preferred option for patients seeking effective and aesthetically pleasing dental restorations:

• Natural Appearance: Designed to match your natural tooth color for a seamless finish.
• Durability: Strong enough to withstand constant stress, ensuring a longer lifespan with proper care.
• Tooth Preservation: Requires less removal of your natural tooth structure compared to dental amalgam fillings.
• Safe and Non-Toxic: Unlike silver fillings, composite fillings are free of mercury and associated potential toxicity risks.
• Prevent Further Decay: Composite resin bonds to the affected tooth, creating a tight seal to protect against future decay.

Who Qualifies for a Composite Filling?

Composite fillings are suitable for most patients dealing with tooth decay or minor damage. However, alternative treatment options may be necessary in cases of:

• Extensive Tooth Decay: Dental crowns or other restorative materials may be better suited for large cavities.
• Teeth Grinding: Chronic grinding can wear down composite resin, making other options more viable.
• High-Stress Areas: Larger cavities in back teeth may require more durable materials like inlays or onlays.

The Composite Fillings Process at Fishinger Dental

Initial Consultation

The process of getting a composite filling starts with an initial consultation at Fishinger Dental. Dr. Nathan Desai will thoroughly examine your teeth and discuss your treatment options. If composite fillings are the best path forward, we’ll create a personalized plan tailored to your needs.

Design/Preparation

If you’ve been approved for composite dental fillings, we’ll design the composite filling to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Before the filling is applied, the tooth will be cleaned and prepared for the filling. Then, Dr. Desai will remove any decayed or damaged tooth structure.

Placement

The composite material is applied in layers, with each layer hardened using a special light curing unit. Once complete, Dr. Desai will polish the filling for a smooth, natural appearance that complements your smile.

Caring for Your Composite Filling

To extend the life of your composite fillings, follow these tips:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day, floss daily, and use fluoride toothpaste to protect your fillings and prevent further tooth decay.
• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: These can place undue stress on your fillings, reducing their lifespan.
• Use a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect your fillings and overall oral health.
• Schedule Regular Dental Checkups: Routine exams allow us to monitor your fillings and address potential issues early.