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Fillings

Composite Fillings at Auburn Family Dental

Most of us have fillings in our mouths that date back many years, and some may have even been placed during childhood. These fillings may now be old, broken down, dark, and unattractive, making us feel self-conscious when we talk, smile or laugh. Old fillings are not only unattractive, but they may also be defective. When a filling is old, the margins will eventually open and allow bacteria and food debris to enter, potentially causing dental decay. Dr. Marie Durflinger will check your fillings and evaluate if they are defective and need replacement.  

Fillings are used to restore teeth damaged by tooth decay. Dr. Durflinger selects tooth-colored composite to match your tooth enamel color once decay is completely removed. Common reasons for receiving a filling are to restore a tooth with small to medium-sized cavities and to restore a chipped front tooth.

What Does a Filling Involve?

Dr. Durflinger will answer your questions about the process before applying anesthetic to the targeted tooth. All decay is then removed from the area, and the enamel is prepped to receive the composite filling. Using multiple shades of composite material, the filling is color-matched to create a seamless smile.

What Are Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings blend in with the remaining natural part of the tooth. The term composite refers to the actual filling material, which is a resin mixture with glass or quartz fillers created to match the patient's original tooth color. 

What Are the Advantages of Composite Fillings?

Composite fillings are durable and resistant to fracture in restorations that need to withstand moderate chewing pressure. They bond directly to the tooth’s surface with an adhesive to create a cosmetic look with a functional strength which allows for a more conservative repair than traditional metal fillings. Amalgam fillings do not bond to the tooth but rather is packed into the tooth and may loosen over time. Teeth are conservatively prepped for composite fillings where amalgam fillings require additional enamel to be removed to create a large and retentive space to hold the metal filling in place.

At Auburn Family Dental, Dr. Durflinger elects to use composite fillings rather than amalgam for their aesthetic and functional benefits, improving the health and beauty of your smile.