Composite Fillings in Vancouver
Natural-Looking, Strong Protection for Your Teeth
At Cambie Marine Gateway Dental, we are proud to offer composite fillings as a safe, effective, and aesthetically pleasing solution for restoring teeth affected by decay or minor damage. Composite fillings, often referred to as white fillings, blend naturally with your tooth color, providing a healthier, more attractive alternative to traditional silver fillings.
What Are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are made from a mixture of tooth-colored resin and finely ground glass particles. This material bonds directly to the surface of your tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and function while maintaining a natural appearance.
Composite fillings are commonly used for:
- Repairing small to medium-sized cavities
- Replacing old silver (amalgam) fillings
- Cosmetic improvements such as repairing chipped or worn teeth
- Patients concerned about the mercury content found in traditional amalgam fillings
Advantages of Composite (White) Fillings
Choosing composite fillings offers many benefits, including:
- Aesthetic appeal that matches the natural shade of your teeth
- Strong bonding to the tooth structure for added strength
- Less drilling and preservation of more natural tooth material
- Versatility to repair chipped, broken, or worn teeth
- Mercury-free, for patients seeking metal-free dental options
- Suitable for both front and back teeth
Composite resin fillings allow for a seamless blend with your existing teeth, making them an ideal choice for patients who value both function and appearance.
The Composite Filling Procedure
During your dental visit, the process for a composite filling typically includes:
- Assessment and Preparation:
We examine the affected tooth and remove any decay or damaged areas under local anesthesia for your comfort. - Tooth Isolation:
The tooth is isolated to keep it dry and clean during the bonding process. - Application of Composite Material:
Layers of composite resin are carefully applied and shaped to match the natural contours of your tooth. - Curing and Hardening:
A special curing light hardens the composite material layer by layer. - Final Shaping and Polishing:
The filling is trimmed, adjusted for your bite, and polished to achieve a smooth, natural-looking finish.
The result is a durable, natural-looking restoration that strengthens your tooth and enhances your smile.
Why Replace Old Silver Fillings with Composite Fillings?
While traditional amalgam fillings are durable, they come with several drawbacks:
- They are visually noticeable due to their metallic color.
- Some patients are concerned about the small amounts of mercury contained in amalgam.
- Silver fillings can expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially leading to tooth fractures over time.
Replacing silver fillings with composite fillings can improve both the appearance of your smile and the integrity of your teeth.
Book Your Composite Filling Appointment Today
Restore your teeth with strong, natural-looking composite fillings at Cambie Marine Gateway Dental in Vancouver. Our experienced team will help you protect your smile with the latest advancements in dental materials. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.