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Discover the Beauty and Benefits of Composite Resin Fillings
If you have a cavity in the Pierrefonds, Quebec City area and are seeking a dentist who utilizes composite resin fillings, look no further than Dr. Ramin Mirmooji and the team at Msmiline Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Mirmooji and the team help patients with tooth decay and cavities daily to retain their teeth and a healthy smile. While decay is irreversible, it can be treated with a filling.
Many dentists today have moved completely away from the old metal fillings of the past and now utilize composite resin materials due to their aesthetic properties and ability to bond directly to the tooth. Let’s learn more about fillings.
What is a filling?
A filling is a form of dental restoration which corrects and restores a weakened and damaged tooth. Before any filling is applied, your dentist will examine the tooth to understand the extent of the damage, decay, etc.
Once your dentist has completed the tooth examination, any damaged or decayed material will be removed from the tooth. This will result in a cavity that must be filled with a tooth-colored, composite resin-filling material. A filling will cover the cavity in its entirety so that future bacteria will not have any chance of entering the tooth and causing infection.
While composite resin fillings are loved for their customizable nature, allowing the dentist to closely match the shade of the filling to the color of your natural tooth, this has not always been the case.
Different Filling Types
Just because most dentists use composite resin fillings today does not mean it is the only type offered. Some dentists still use what is called an amalgam filling. An amalgam filling is composed of various kinds of metal, including zinc, copper, tin, silver, and mercury (which make up nearly half of the filling). Many dentists have moved away from this type of filling not only because they are unattractive and silver in color but because they contain metals like mercury and cannot be bonded to the tooth.
Instead, composite resin fillings are crafted from a mixture of glass and plastic, which provides the natural color of a tooth. They are metal-free and biocompatible, meaning your body should not react adversely to the material. They are not sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, unlike amalgam fillings that can expand and contract when in contact with hot and cold temperatures. Because they can be directly bonded to the tooth, they require less of the tooth to be removed in preparation for the filling.
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The Benefits of Composite Resin
The most significant benefit patients enjoy about composite resin fillings is the appearance of the material, allowing a discreet treatment. You will not need to worry about others knowing you have had a filling every time you open your mouth wide to laugh, yawn, etc.
Additionally, unlike amalgam fillings, minimal tooth structure must be removed to place a composite resin filling. Your dentist will need to remove any damaged or decayed tooth material, but that will be just about it. This allows your tooth to retain its healthy, remaining structure.
Composite Resin Fillings FAQs
What are composite resin fillings? How are they different from metal fillings?
Composite resin fillings are natural-looking restorations crafted from a mixture of durable plastic and glass-like materials. Unlike silver amalgam fillings, which are metallic and more noticeable, composite fillings are color-matched to blend with your teeth. This makes them especially popular for treating cavities in visible areas of the mouth. Additionally, they bond securely to the tooth’s surface, often requiring less removal of healthy tooth structure during placement.
When are composite fillings recommended?
Composite resin fillings are recommended for treating cavities, repairing minor cracks, chips, or worn-down teeth, and even for cosmetic improvements such as reshaping a tooth. They are especially popular for front teeth and other areas where appearance matters most. We might recommend composite fillings for patients with metal allergies or those who prefer a mercury-free option. Thanks to their versatility and aesthetic appeal, they are a trusted choice for patients of all ages.
How is the composite filling procedure performed?
The procedure is relatively quick and can usually be completed in just one appointment. We begin by numbing the area to ensure your comfort. The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is cleaned and prepped. The composite resin is applied in layers and hardened using a special curing light. Once the material is fully set, it is shaped and polished to seamlessly blend with your surrounding teeth. Most patients return to their normal routine the same day.
Are composite fillings durable and long-lasting?
Yes, composite fillings are quite durable, especially with today’s advanced materials. While they may not last if metal fillings are in areas with heavy bite force, they hold up well under normal chewing conditions. On average, composite fillings last 7 to 10 years or more with proper care. Their ability to bond tightly to the tooth also helps strengthen the tooth structure and reduce the risk of future decay.
Do composite fillings cause sensitivity?
Some patients may experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures following the placement of a composite filling. This is typically short-lived and subsides within a few days to a week. In the meantime, using a sensitive toothpaste and avoiding overly hot or cold foods can help. If sensitivity persists for two weeks, contact our office for an evaluation. We can easily adjust the filling or check your bite to improve comfort.
Can old metal fillings be replaced with composite?
Yes, old amalgam (silver) fillings can be safely removed and replaced with composite resin fillings for a more natural look. Many patients choose to update their metal fillings to achieve a uniform smile or address concerns about mercury content. We use precise techniques and high-quality materials to ensure that the replacement is safe, effective, and visually seamless. This process can often be completed on a single visit, depending on how many fillings are being replaced.
How do I protect my teeth after getting composite fillings?
Caring for composite fillings is just like caring for your natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and attend routine cleanings and checkups. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens, and consider wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth. These simple habits can help extend your fillings’ durability and maintain your overall oral health. With consistent care, composite fillings can keep your smile healthy and attractive for many years.
Contact Your Dentist Today!
Our smiles play a significant role in our self-esteem and confidence. If you are embarrassed about having a metal amalgam filling, you may hide your smile more.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mirmooji for a discreet treatment with composite resin fillings, please call (514) 613-1888 today.
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Dr. Ramin Mirmooji is a dynamic general practitioner who believes in providing excellent dentistry through personalized treatment plans and the best advice for patients. He graduated in Civil Engineering from South Bank Polytechnic (England) and studied microbiology and immunology at McGill University. He obtained his doctorate in dentistry from the University of Laval. He has followed many mini-residency courses in orthodontics, implantology, periodontics, endodontics, cosmetic dentistry, pain management, MTA disorders, etc. He is a member of the Quebec Dental Association, Canadian Dental Association (CDA), Dental Society of Montreal, and International Congress of Implantology.
Dr. Samer Abboud, who graduated in Paris, France, is a general dentist practicing orthodontic services in several dental offices in Montreal. He has also served as a clinical research coordinator at McGill University and a professor. He has trained in adult and pediatric orthodontics, occlusion, and dental surgeries and has earned many diplomas. He has been a member of the Ordre des Dentistes du Québec, CDA, Association des Chirurgiens Dentistes du Québec, Proprietary Dentists of Quebec, and the National Dental Examining Board of Canada.
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