Composite (White) Fillings

A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling. It can also be used for cosmetic dentistry. If we used a local anesthetic to thoroughly numb the area we treated, the numbness in your lips, teeth and tongue might last for several hours after the procedure. To prevent damage to your tongue and lips, you should avoid any chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.

Things to expect after treatment:

• Once numbness has worn subsided, you are able to eat and drink normally.
• For the first few weeks, it is normal to experience some pressure, or sensitivity to hot and cold after your composite is finished. The injection sit may also be sore. Aleve, Ibuprofen or aspirin will work well to alleviate the tenderness.
• If your gums are swollen or sore, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help to alleviate discomfort and swelling. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, then gently swish the water around the tooth and spit.
• Floss and brush your new filling as you normally would, and maintain consistent hygiene routines.

Notify our office if any of the following occurs:

• You feel that your bite is not correctly balanced. It feels as if the filling is too high, or you are hitting the filling first when you bite down.
• You have discomfort or pain that persists from hot or cold temperatures. Both of these symptoms are normal and are caused from not being able to properly feel your bite while being numb.

Warranty Information

The model filling is no more than 50% of the tooth. This leaves half of your tooth to support the filling. Occasionally, we place a filling as a conservative measure, anticipating there is enough natural structure to hold the filling, when in reality it turns out there is not. The tooth then starts to break away because it can no longer support the filling. In this case, we will credit the cost of the filling towards the cost of a new porcelain restoration (CEREC crown). For a period of three years from the date of service, our warranty also covers the replacement of the filling if it fails, at no additional cost. Please be aware that this warranty is null and void if you do not maintain your 6 month- preventive cleaning appointments.