Dental Fillings In West Windsor

What Are Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings are an alternative to traditional metal amalgam fillings. Instead of a mixture of metals, composite fillings are made of a flexible dental resin mixed with a special type of crushed glass.

The resin is applied to your tooth layer-by-layer and hardened using a UV light, restoring your tooth structure. Compared to metal fillings, using composite fillings in West Windsor, East Windsor and Princeton Junction has a number of benefits.

First, your tooth will look and feel completely natural. Unlike metal fillings, which have a grayish appearance, composite fillings match the color of your teeth perfectly. In addition, composite fillings bond very tightly to the tooth, and require the removal of less enamel structure during the preparation process.

Recognizing The Signs Of Tooth Decay

Wondering if you need a filling? The best way to find out is with a consultation at Smile Society General Dentistry, but there are also a few signs of tooth decay that you can be on the lookout for.

If you have a deep cavity, you will likely experience some pain and discomfort around your tooth, or sensitivity to heat, cold and the pressure of chewing. If your tooth feels sore, you may have a cavity.

If you can see the surface of the affected tooth, you can also look for visible signs of a cavity, like pitting or holes in the tooth, or visible dark brown or black discoloration of the tooth. If you see these signs, it’s very likely that you have a cavity.

What Can I Expect From The Filling Process?

Getting a filling is a very simple, straightforward process. First, our team will begin by numbing and cleaning your mouth. Once your mouth is numb, Dr. Singh or Dr. Sulaiman will begin by removing any damaged or decayed enamel from the tooth.

Once the tooth has been freed of decayed enamel and is thoroughly cleaned, we will choose a dental composite resin that matches your tooth, and begin applying it layer-by-layer. Your doctor will rebuild your natural tooth structure, then trim and buff the tooth until it’s been completely restored.

Finally, they will check your bite with carbon paper to ensure everything looks good, and you’ll be sent home with your newly-restored tooth. Usually, the entire process takes less than an hour.

Does It Hurt To Get A Tooth Filled?

No, fillings are a minimally-invasive dental treatment. Only the decayed enamel of your tooth will be removed. Dr. Sulaiman or Dr. Singh will also apply a local anesthetic to the site, which will numb the area so you won’t feel any discomfort during treatment. 

We also have additional sedation options that our patients can explore to ensure they feel completely safe and comfortable throughout the entire dental filling procedure. To learn more and see if you’re a good candidate for sedation, feel free to contact us at (609) 779-2054 for more details. 

Also, your filling will not hurt after your procedure. It may feel a little bit tender or sensitive for a few days or up to a few weeks, but this will usually go away quite rapidly. If you’re worried about pain or sensitivity that lasts more than a few weeks, you can schedule a follow-up at Smile Society General Dentistry to make sure your filling is in good shape.

How Long Do Fillings Last?

This depends on the type of material used for your filling, its location, the skill of your dentist, and a number of other factors. However, as a rule, composite (tooth-colored) fillings last between 5-8 years, and can last 10+ years with proper dental care after your appointment. 

It’s important to take proper care of your mouth to make sure it lasts as long as possible. The best way to do this is to maintain great at-home oral hygiene habits. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes and floss once per day. Eat a healthy diet, avoid sugary drinks, reduce alcohol consumption and quit smoking and/or using tobacco, if applicable.

You also should see Dr. Singh or Dr. Sulaiman at Smile Society General Dentistry every six months. Routine six-month teeth cleanings and oral exams can help your dentist recognize the signs of tooth decay, premature filling failure, and other issues. Then, they can take action and make sure that your tooth stays healthy and strong. This gives you peace of mind, and can even prevent complications and save you time and money.

What Happens If I Don’t Get A Filling?

If you don’t get a filling, your cavity will get worse. Once a cavity forms, it traps food particles, bacteria, and acid more effectively, and will almost always become bigger, even if you take great care of your teeth. Eventually, the cavity may eat through the outer layers of enamel, causing a tooth infection. 

Stay on top of your oral health with Smile Society General Dentistry, and get the treatment you need. 

Contact Us Now For Composite Fillings In West Windsor

If you want to keep your mouth healthy in West Windsor, you need to get treatment for cavities right away. Leaving them untreated will result in further pain, discomfort, and complications. So don’t wait. See if a composite filling is right for you by scheduling an appointment at Smile Society General Dentistry. Give us a call at (609) 779-2054, or stop by our office at 335 Princeton Highstown Road, West Windsor, NJ 08550 to schedule in person.