In order to maintain the health and appearance of your smile, we routinely recommend replacing your old dental fillings. When you visit our dental office, we will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth and determine if you need to replace your old fillings.
request an appointmentWhat Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a type of restoration used to repair teeth. They are made from composite resins, porcelain, or metals and can be used to fill cavities or cover the entire surface of the tooth. Dental fillings are shaped like the tooth so that they blend in well with your natural smile.
When Should You Replace Your Fillings?
There are several reasons why you would require replacing your old fillings. These include:
- Cavities that have not yet been filled
- Old or outdated fillings that do not match the natural color of your teeth
- A change in the color or shade of your existing fillings
- Teeth sensitivity caused by decaying fillings
- Cracked or broken fillings
- Exposed metal in the filling
- The presence of scar tissue beneath the filling.
How Are Fillings Replaced?
The procedure involved in replacing old fillings is simple and quick. We begin by numbing your teeth to eliminate any discomfort you may experience during the procedure. We then remove the old filling and clean the cavity to eliminate any bacteria or decay. We will then shape the cavity appropriately and place a new filling inside it to restore its shape and function. This filling is then hardened using light beams to solidify it and make it function once again.
How Are Composite Fillings Placed?
In recent years, composite resin fillings have become increasingly popular due to their exceptional properties. They are a composite of tooth-colored materials such as glass or ceramics whose color matches that of the natural teeth. As a result, these fillings blend in seamlessly with your smile so that they cannot be easily noticed by others. At Lowery Smiles, we use composite resin fillers because they are versatile, durable, easy to shape, and biocompatible with the natural tissues of your mouth.
Here’s how they work: At our dental office, we will place a thin layer of composite resin on top of the tooth to be treated and harden it using a special light beam. After this layer has been hardened, we will add more composite resin until a layer of sufficient thickness is achieved. This layer is then shaped so that it perfectly matches the contour of your tooth and will not be noticed when you smile or speak. This composite resin filling is then hardened permanently using an additional light beam that hardens it instantly into place.
Lowery Smiles, located in Cary, NC, has expert dentists and the latest amenities for treatment. Call Dentist in Cary, NC at (919) 468-5501 and schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings
When should I replace my dental fillings?
You may need to replace fillings if they are cracked, discolored, causing sensitivity, or if decay is present underneath. At Lowery Smiles, our team will examine your teeth and let you know if a replacement is necessary. Call us today at (919) 468-5501 to schedule an evaluation.
What are dental fillings made of?
Fillings can be made from composite resin, porcelain, or metals. At Lowery Smiles, we often recommend composite resin because it blends naturally with your teeth, is durable, and biocompatible with oral tissues.
Does replacing a dental filling hurt?
Replacing a filling is typically a quick and comfortable procedure. At Lowery Smiles, we numb the area before removing the old filling, so you should feel little to no discomfort. Afterward, most patients return to normal activities right away. For details, call us at (919) 468-5501.
How long do composite fillings last?
With proper oral hygiene, composite fillings can last many years. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups at Lowery Smiles will help extend their lifespan and keep your smile healthy.
Why choose composite fillings over metal fillings?
Composite fillings are tooth-colored and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible when you smile. At Lowery Smiles, we use high-quality composite resin for both durability and aesthetics. Contact us at (919) 468-5501 to learn more about your options.