Patients in Bloomington, IL can have strong and esthetic dental fillings from an experienced dental team

If you’ve been told that you need a filling for a decayed, cracked, or fractured tooth, you should consider composite dental fillings from Eastland Dental Center in Bloomington, IL. At our dental office, we use composite dental fillings because they blend in naturally with your other teeth and they are durable and long-lasting. If you are in the Bloomington area and would like to learn more about composite dental fillings, call our team today.

What is a composite dental filling?

Composite dental fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and glass and can be color matched to blend in naturally with the tooth. There are two types of composite fillings: direct and indirect.

• Direct fillings – With a direct filling, the composite material is applied directly to the hole in the tooth and is hardened with a special light.
• Indirect fillings – With an indirect filling, the filling is fabricated in a lab prior to placement. The inlay is then placed into the tooth at a subsequent appointment. Indirect fillings are typically only used for molars in the back of the mouth.

Why choose composite fillings?

There are many reasons our patients love tooth-colored composite fillings. For many, it’s because they look more like natural teeth instead of metal fillings. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Beauty – Amalgam and gold fillings stand out in the mouth and can detract from the attractive appearance of the smile. Composite fillings blend in seamlessly with the natural tooth so that no one can tell there has been dental work.
• Strength – Teeth that need a filling due to decay or a fracture tend to become weak. The composite filling bonds with the tooth to strengthen it.
• Protection – Amalgam fillings are sensitive to changes in temperature which causes the filling to expand or contract, putting the tooth at risk for breaks. Composite fillings are much more resistant to thermal stresses.
• Versatility – Composite material can also be used as a cosmetic repair to teeth that are broken or chipped.

The composite filling process

If you have a tooth affected by decay, a chip, or a fracture, the first step is for a full assessment of the tooth including x-rays. From there, the dentist can determine if the composite filling is the right choice or if you would be better suited for a different restorative procedure.

The process for placing the filling is quite straightforward. The dentist will begin by numbing the area and then removing the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth. The area will be cleaned and made retentive before it is filled with the composite material. Once the filling material is in place, the dentist will shape it to match the natural shape and feel of your tooth and a special light will be used to harden it into place.

Caring for your composite filling

Teeth with composite fillings are still susceptible to decay, so it is important to practice good oral hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing. A healthy diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, with minimal added sugar can help prevent plaque and tartar build up. It’s also important to avoid biting or chewing on hard objects such as ice, pen caps, or hard candy to prevent damage to the filling. If you clench or grind your teeth, wearing a protective mouth guard can help the longevity of the filling.

Why choose Eastland Dental Center?

Drs. Mike and Marisa Milligan and the rest of the team at Eastland Dental Center are committed to providing exceptional dental care in a welcoming environment. We offer the convenience of appointments that start at 7:40 a.m. and have extended hours on Mondays and Wednesdays so we can be available when you need us most.

In addition to composite dental fillings, we offer a wide range of dental services including crowns and bridges, dental implants, gum therapy, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, sleep apnea treatment, and emergency dental care.

Whether you are looking for a new dental clinic for your exam and cleaning, you want to enhance your smile with cosmetic treatment, or if you would like an evaluation for a dental concern, we’re here for you. If you’re in the Bloomington, IL area, call us at (309) 663-4711 to schedule your appointment.