Composite Fillings

When your dentist in Arlington, WA notices that you have a cavity, we want to have it taken care of as soon as possible. During your appointment, we'll remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill it with a substance that protects the damaged area and keeps bacteria from returning to the scene of the crime. This procedure is called a filling. The most common substance is composite fillings, but some practices will also use amalgam material for the filling.

 

Composite fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings, are used because their color closely resembles that of your natural teeth. They provide proper durability for small to medium cavities and the procedure typically involves removing less of the tooth than your dentist normally would for an amalgam filling. The composite filling also fits particularly well for highly visible teeth like the ones in the front because of their natural look.

 

When can a composite filling be used?

 

How it's done

After your dentist in Arlington, WA numbs the area where the filling is going to be placed, they'll remove any decayed portions or areas of your tooth. A substance is then applied to help open up the pores of your teeth for a stronger bond and then hardened and cured with a special light. Once this is done, the composite filling material is then applied in thin layers to slowly form the complete and total filling. After the composite has hardened, the filling will be smoothed down and polished to be comfortable, look natural, and fit your bite.