A cavity can do more than affect the appearance of your smile. An untreated cavity can easily lead to an infection, which may require a root canal or even an extraction. Our dentist, Dr. Gretchen Drees can restore the health and look of your smile with a tooth-colored or composite filling in Ashland, Virginia. If you would like to learn more, call Ashland Dental Arts at 804-798-7388 today and we will help you plan your appointment!
Composite fillings are made of a plastic resin and unlike amalgam fillings they contain no mercury or other metals. But, their popularity is mainly due to the fact that they are shaded to blend in with the surface of your tooth, making them virtually unnoticeable to other people. Although they were originally reserved for teeth that did not receive much pressure from eating and that were easily visible in a person’s smile, composite fillings are now used to repair cavities in molars and premolars. Since the composite is a liquid when it is applied, it easily fills the cavity and less drilling is required.
After Dr. Drees has removed the decayed portion of your tooth, she will prepare the composite and shade it to match your tooth. The composite will be applied in layers and each layer will be cured before the next layer is applied. When the last layer has cured, the dentist will polish your new filling to strengthen it and help it to blend in with your tooth. If you have a tooth in need of repair, we invite you to call our office to learn more about composite fillings.
