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Are Composite Fillings My Best Choice for Cavity Treatment?
Nobody wants to be told they have cavities. Sadly, it’s common, especially if you’ve been lax with your home oral care or dental cleanings. The good news is that cavities, for the most part, are treatable, and you can get the prompt treatment you need from our team at Libertyville Dental Associates. Your Libertyville, Illinois dentists treat decay with composite dental fillings, which are natural teeth fillings. Here are some questions we’re often asked about composite fillings.
What are composite fillings?
Most dentists today use composite fillings to treat cavities. They’re a mix of plastic resin and fine glass particles. Composite fillings are often referred to as natural or white fillings because they have a tooth-colored appearance that blends in with your smile.
How are composite fillings placed?
Your Libertyville dental team will start by cleaning your teeth, so your filling can be placed on a clean tooth surface. An anesthetic is used to numb your mouth so you feel no discomfort or pain. We’ll drill your tooth to remove the decay and damaged enamel, leaving as much of your tooth structure intact as possible. Then we’ll apply the filling in layers, molding it to your tooth’s shape to restore its natural appearance. Each layer is dried with UV light to keep it secure. After the last layer, we’ll check your bite and polish your tooth to make it as good as new.
What are the advantages of composite fillings?
White fillings blend with your teeth to maintain your smile’s natural appearance. Your Libertyville dentist can color-match the filling to the shade of your tooth, making your filling practically invisible. Composite fillings bond directly with your tooth enamel, sealing it from future decay. They support your tooth structure to prevent breakage with continued use. White fillings also insulate your teeth against temperature changes in your mouth that can cause sensitivity.
What else can composite fillings be used for?
In addition to treating decay, white fillings can be used as bonding to repair minor chips and hairline cracks in teeth, close tooth gaps, or conceal tooth discolorations to improve the aesthetics of your smile.
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New Patients: (847) 349-4306 | Existing Patients: (847)-367-6360
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Are composite fillings safe?
Absolutely! The resin mixture is 100% biocompatible with your teeth and gum tissues. As the fillings contain no metal, there’s no risk of metal allergies. Many of our patients also appreciate the fact that white fillings are mercury-free.
How long do composite fillings last?
If you take good care of your teeth, flossing daily, brushing them twice daily, and seeing your dentist every six months for dental cleanings, your composite fillings can last up to 10 years before needing an upgrade. It also helps to avoid eating hard and sticky foods and using your teeth as tools.
Who can I see for composite filling cavity treatment near me?
At Libertyville Dental Associates in Libertyville, IL, we’ve got you covered. Call (847) 349-4306 to schedule your cavity treatment today.
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Dr. Alan S. Weisz, D.D.S., M.S.,
Dr. Alan S. Weisz, D.D.S., M.S., is a seasoned dental professional with 48 years of experience. He graduated with honors from the University of Illinois at Chicago, earning both a Doctor of Dental Surgery and a Master’s in Oral Pathology. After his residency at Wadsworth VA and UCLA, he was recognized by the Academy of Oral Pathology. He co-founded the Oral Medicine section at the University of Illinois and served as an Assistant Professor. Dr. Weisz actively volunteers at the ARK dental clinic and the Trudi Burger Children’s Dental Clinic in Jerusalem, serving children of all backgrounds.
Dr. Samuel P. Weisz, D.D.S
Dr. Samuel P. Weisz is a respected dentist known for his focus on prevention. A graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago Dental School, Dr. Weisz honed his skills through a prestigious General Practice Residency at the VA Long Beach Hospital System, with rotations focused on oral surgery, dental implants, sedation, and endodontics. He holds membership with the ADA, Illinois State Dental Society, and Chicago Dental Society, where he served on the communications board. Recognized by Kleer Dental as one of America’s most influential dentists, Dr. Weisz has also won awards through Clinician’s Report for his children’s book, “Sugar Bugs.” Dr. Weisz is proud to be decorated as a Patriotic Employer, with employer support from the guard and reserve.