New Smile.

New Life!

New Smile.

New Life!

Dental Fillings

Texas Sedation Dental & Implant Center offers white fillings, also known as composite fillings or tooth-colored fillings, as a natural-looking and durable solution to dental cavities and decay. If a dental filling is needed, one of our dentists will gently remove the decayed portion of your tooth, thoroughly clean and disinfect the area, and then fill the missing area with a tooth-colored composite resin material, making the filling undetectable to the surrounding natural teeth. After a nice polishing, you’ll be ready to smile confidently again!

If you need a filling, early diagnosis, and treatment can help prevent more serious problems from occurring. We have a wonderful team of highly experienced dentists ready to help you get the smile you’ve always dreamt of.

What Causes the Need for a Dental Filling?

Dental fillings are used to stop cavities and decay. Cavities are caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on the teeth and gums. Bad bacteria live in the plaque and produce acids that eat away at the enamel, the hard outer layer of teeth. When the enamel is damaged, it creates decay, a hole in the tooth, called a cavity. Once the decay has started, the body cannot repair the enamel itself. If the hole in the tooth is not filled and repaired by a dentist, cavities can spread and lead to more serious issues, such as crowns, root canals, and even extractions. Dental fillings reinforce the tooth’s structure and improve its appearance by saving it from further decay.

People who have dry mouth or take anxiety medications or antidepressants are at an increased risk for cavities because these conditions can reduce saliva production. Smokers are also at an increased risk for cavities because smoking dries out the mouth and decreases saliva production.

Symptoms of cavities include pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, sensitivity to sweet foods, visible holes or pits in teeth, and bad breath. If you think you may have a cavity, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to get it filled and repaired. 

How Long Do Fillings Last? What Are They Made Of?

A dental filling can last for many years before it needs to be replaced. To ensure a filling’s longevity, it’s imperative to brush and floss regularly. Proper brushing and flossing can help prevent the decay of the enamel and the spread of cavities.

White dental fillings are made from a biocompatible mix of plastic and silica (glass), which gives them a reflective property similar to enamel which can be shade-matched to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.

Why We Use White Fillings & Not Metal/Silver

White fillings are popular because they look more natural than silver fillings and are safer than amalgam fillings. However, fillings can be made from several different types of material.

Metal and amalgam fillings have been used to fill cavities for years. Metal and amalgam fillings are effective, but they also appear unnatural, creating a visible dark spot that contrasts with the white of your tooth. They also expand and contract leading to cracks in your tooth.

While amalgam filling has been safely used for years and is safe in studies conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Public Health, some patients remain concerned about the mercury content in amalgam fillings, and we understand and respect that concern.

At our office, we use the latest advancements in dental technology to provide our patients with fillings that are not only effective but also natural-looking. In addition, they bond directly to your tooth, providing added support. Our patients love the fact that composite fillings are virtually invisible, and they appreciate the fact that their smile looks natural after treatment. If you are looking for an effective and attractive solution to your cavities, we encourage you to ask us about our composite fillings.

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What is Composite Bonding?

There are many reasons why you might want to consider composite bonding. Perhaps you have chipped or cracked a tooth and are looking for a way to repair the damage. Or maybe you want to improve the appearance of your smile. Whatever the reason, composite bonding can provide an excellent solution. The procedure is relatively quick and easy, and it can give you dramatic results. We will apply a soft composite resin material to your tooth, shaping and trimming to look seamless. Once the composite resin sets, it will harden and bond with your tooth’s enamel. The result is a natural-looking smile that you can be proud of.

Composite bonding can be used to:

  • Reshape broken or cracked teeth
  • Improve the appearance of discolored teeth
  • Close gaps between teeth
  • Lengthen teeth that are short or worn

At Texas Sedation Dental & Implant Center, we strive to provide the best possible dental care for our patients. We offer a wide range of services, from routine cleanings and fillings to more complex procedures such as crowns and bridges. We also offer a variety of payment options to make dental care affordable for everyone. To schedule an appointment, please call us at our Longview (903)704-0154 or Tyler Office (903)231-6490. We look forward to meeting you!