Composite Fillings in Framingham, MA

Fillings are a common dental restoration and your Framingham dentist is highly experienced at repairing teeth with this method.

The procedure begins by numbing the area around the affected tooth, followed by the removal of the decayed portion of the tooth. If your restoration is not targeting decay but only minor damage, you may not need a numbing agent at all. This is a conversation you and your dentist will have before the procedure begins to ensure that you are comfortable with how things will progress.

Because of their composition – a liquid resin embedded with finely ground glass particles – composite fillings can be placed on a tooth in thin layers, which preserves more of the natural tooth and slowly forms the final filling. By also blending into the tooth structure, composite fillings check both the functional and aesthetic boxes, which makes them especially appealing as a restoration for more visible tooth defects or decay.

Once the composite has been hardened and cured with a special blue light – a step that takes only seconds – the filling will be smoothed and polished to a high shine that reflects the beauty of natural enamel and results in a strong, smooth, conservative, invisible restoration. Your dentist will also check your bite to ensure that it is comfortable and no part of the filling is noticeable.

Tooth-colored fillings can do so much more than just fix a cavity. If you have any of the following structural or cosmetic complaints, a composite filling could be a viable solution:

• Tooth decay
• Chipped tooth
• Cracked tooth
• Discolored or stained tooth
• Gapped teeth

Opting for a composite filling can often eliminate the need for invasive restorative dentistry or advanced cosmetic dentistry. Fillings improve both the health and appearance of your tooth without taking a large bite out of your budget.

Composite fillings not only fix existing problems, they are used as a preventive dentistry measure too to keep decay from developing and stop a tooth from deteriorating. Opting for a small filling now or fixing a tooth with a minor defect can protect your oral health from developing bigger and more painful problems later.

Many patients with existing silver fillings opt to have them replaced with composite fillings. Silver amalgam fillings are unsightly, can cause damage or discoloration, and contain toxic mercury. With a tooth-colored filling, you can correct a tooth and make it stronger at the same time.

Composite fillings are a popular choice for restoring decayed or damaged teeth because they offer several advantages over traditional silver (amalgam) fillings. One of the most significant benefits is their natural appearance. The composite material is tooth-colored and can be precisely matched to the shade of surrounding teeth, making it virtually invisible when you smile or speak.

Beyond aesthetics, composite fillings also provide strong bonding capabilities. Unlike metal fillings, which rely on mechanical retention, composite fillings bond directly to the tooth structure. This enhances durability while preserving more of the natural tooth, helping to maintain its strength over time.

Another key advantage is that composite fillings are mercury-free, making them a safer and more environmentally friendly option. Many patients prefer composite materials because they eliminate concerns about mercury exposure. Additionally, composite fillings are less likely to expand and contract with temperature changes, reducing the risk of cracks or fractures in the tooth structure over time.

Maintaining your composite fillings is simple and requires the same good oral hygiene habits as natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent cavities from forming around the filling or in other areas of the mouth. Using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush can help keep your natural teeth and fillings in excellent condition.

To extend the lifespan of your fillings, it’s important to avoid excessive wear and tear. Habits such as chewing on hard objects (like ice or pens) or grinding your teeth at night can put stress on fillings and cause them to wear down more quickly. If you have a history of teeth grinding (bruxism), a custom nightguard from Atlantis Dental can help protect your restorations.

Routine dental checkups and cleanings with Dr. Sumbul Naqvi are also vital. During these visits, the dentist will examine your fillings for any signs of wear, cracks, or leaks and recommend touch-ups or replacements if needed. Compound fillings can last for many years with proper care while maintaining their strength and appearance.