Chipping a tooth can be a painful ordeal that results in an unsightly smile. Unfortunately, this type of damage happens all too often, and it is important to take care of it as quickly as possible to avoid further complications. If you are dealing with chipped or fractured teeth, then it might be time to consider composite fillings. This simple procedure allows our team to quickly and safely restore your smile with a cutting-edge material that is nearly as durable as your natural teeth.
Common Causes of Broken Teeth
Many people are surprised to discover just how easily teeth can become fractured. Even those who keep their teeth healthy and strong might find themselves struggling with chips and cracks after falling or being hit during a sporting event.
While teeth can become chipped during an accident or collision, damage can also happen during a meal. Biting down on any hard food or object can easily chip the outer layers of a tooth. When left untreated, a cracked tooth can cause gum lacerations or even become infected.
The Power of Composite Fillings
Traditional fillings are made from an amalgamation of zinc, copper, mercury, tin and silver. These metals are quite durable, but they do have a number of clear disadvantages. Not only are they very visible, but they often produce an uncomfortable sensation when touched by silverware. Composite fillings are used in the exact same manner as amalgam fillings, but they allow patients to avoid those unwanted side effects.
Composite fillings are made from a strong material that can be stained to match the color of a patient’s natural teeth. Before the material becomes hard, it is gently molded to fill in cracks and replace chips. The primary advantage of composite fillings is the fact that they are essentially invisible once they are in place. Most patients completely forget they are there within weeks of their procedure.
Installing Composite Fillings
Before the composite fillings are put in place, our team will first look over your mouth to ensure that there is no further damage to the surrounding teeth. After the area is numb, our dentist can carefully prepare the tooth and apply the material to the damaged area. This process requires an experienced hand in order to perfectly match the shape of the natural tooth.
Once the material is in place, a special light may be used to harden it. If the damage is relatively minimal, we can often carry out this procedure in as little as 20 or 30 minutes. More extensive damage might take longer to address. With the proper aftercare, composite fillings last for an average of seven years.
Fixing Your Broken Teeth
Stop covering up your mouth when you smile and schedule an appointment at Implant and Comprehensive Dentistry to learn more about how composite fillings can benefit you. We have offices in Champions Gate and Winter Haven. Contact us today to book your dental appointment.