When your dentist recommends a tooth filling, it’s normal to be disappointed. However, you should take the news positively because this gives you a chance to treat your decay with a conservative restoration. The dental filling procedure involves replacing the decayed portion to restore your tooth’s shape, colour, and function.

While several tooth fillings exist, Tansley Woods Dentistry in Burlington, Ontario, uses composite resin fillings. These tooth-coloured fillings are shaded like natural teeth to achieve a seamless finish. Once Dr. Thelam Nguyen treats your cavity or tooth decay with a composite filling, the restoration is so life-like that onlookers won’t notice you ever had decay!

How composite fillings are placed

The need for a tooth filling is often discovered during dental check-ups, although sometimes you can spot a cavity at home. When cavities are found, they should be treated immediately to prevent further damage and the need for invasive treatments. The good news is that treating cavities with composite resin is fast and painless.

Before treatment, we’ll numb your mouth to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the treatment. Next, we remove the decayed portion of your tooth and clean the area thoroughly to eliminate all harmful bacteria. After prepping your tooth, we fill out the void left using composite resin and harden the material using a curing light.

The next phase involves reshaping your tooth and making the necessary modifications until your bite regains its normal feel. Finally, we polish your tooth to achieve a glossy finish. When composite fillings are well cared for, they can last over 10 years. However, should you notice signs of wear and tear before then, please notify your dentist — these fillings are easily repairable.