Composite Bonding/White Fillings

Bonding can be used to:

• Close spaces or gaps between teeth
• Repair chipped or cracked teeth
• Decayed teeth
• Conceal discolored or faded areas on a tooth’s surface

The process of composite bonding involves removing affected portions of your teeth if necessary or closing gaps with a plastic or resin. Unlike veneers or crowns, bonding requires that just a small part of the original tooth be removed. This means that the original structure of your tooth will not be affected. Composite bonding is a quick process, usually requiring only one hour or less, and is relatively inexpensive. Because various shades are available, you can choose the shade that is closest to your tooth’s natural color. It is important to remember, however, that the materials used are not as durable as that utilized for veneers or crowns so may not last as long. You might also need to return to our office for retouching or replacement at some point. Because composite bonds can stain easily, you need to care for them correctly. Like any other teeth, they need to be brushed and flossed daily and you should attempt to avoid consuming certain foods such as candy, beverages like coffee or tea and the use of tobacco. You may also experience sensitivity to hot and cold substances for a short time after the bond is placed.

White Fillings

If you have ever visited a dentist on a regular basis you have likely received a filling. Fillings are used to restore the structure of a tooth that is damaged through decay or fracture. Today, white fillings are the most common choice for patients. This is because they provide more of a natural look and feel to your teeth and your smile.

Many people remember fillings from years ago that caused a black look to their teeth because of the metal used. Thankfully, the white composite material used today provides a more pleasing, aesthetic look as well as a healthier smile. They are also much more comfortable than the older type of fillings and will actually provide a stronger feel to your teeth. They are created from state-of-the-art porcelain or tooth-colored resin. These white fillings also strengthen your teeth because they fuse to them and can actually restore them to their former shape. They are more cost-effective as well because the older fillings were known to weaken and even break teeth, making it necessary to replace the tooth entirely.