Dental Fillings
While no one likes to be told they need a filling, we’ve made incredible advancements in treating cavities over the years. Gone are the days of painful time consuming cavity treatments.
At our practice, you can receive a filling in just one visit without feeling any pain.
What Are Fillings?
Fillings are restorations that repair and rebuild teeth that have been harmed by cavities. After removing the damaged portion of the tooth, the filling seals out bacteria and protects the tooth so that it can function normally.
Choices in Restorative Materials
Materials used for fillings may include composite (white fillings) or amalgam (silver fillings.) White fillings are more aesthetically pleasing and generally less invasive. Silver fillings are useful for large cavities where cost is a concern.
During your examination, we will discuss your options with you so that you can make an educated decision about your filling material.
Composite Resin Fillings and Esthetic Bonding
At Northern Virginia Dental Solutions, Dr. Lokitis will prioritize both the function and appearance of your smile. That’s why she offers composite resin fillings and esthetic composite bonding, two versatile, tooth-colored solutions that restore and enhance your teeth while blending seamlessly with your natural smile.
Esthetic Composite Bonding
Composite bonding takes the benefits of composite resin one step further by enhancing the appearance of your teeth. This cosmetic procedure involves using the same tooth-colored material to correct imperfections such as chips, cracks, gaps, or discoloration. Esthetic bonding is a minimally invasive way to transform your smile, often completed in a single visit.
The Benefits of Esthetic Bonding
- Improves Aesthetics: Ideal for correcting minor flaws and achieving a more uniform, beautiful smile.
- Quick and Non-Invasive: The procedure requires little to no preparation of the tooth and is typically pain-free.
- Customizable: The composite material can be sculpted and polished to perfectly match your natural teeth.
- Cost-Effective: Bonding is an affordable alternative to veneers or crowns for minor cosmetic improvements.
Advanced Composite Fillings
Composite fillings are attractive, affordable, and they tend to strengthen a tooth that has been weakened by decay. In our practice, we often suggest these “white” fillings as they’re nearly indistinguishable from your natural tooth.
What Are Composite Resin Fillings?
Composite resin fillings are a modern alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings. These durable, tooth-colored materials are used to repair cavities, cracks, or fractures in your teeth. The composite is bonded directly to the tooth, providing a strong and lasting restoration while preserving more of your natural tooth structure. In addition to being effective, composite fillings are virtually invisible, giving you the confidence to smile without hesitation.
The Benefits of Composite Resin Fillings
- Natural Appearance: The resin is color-matched to your teeth, ensuring a seamless, natural look.
- Durability: Composite fillings are designed to withstand everyday chewing and biting forces.
- Conservative Treatment: Unlike amalgam, composite fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure, preserving more of your natural tooth.
- Mercury-Free: Composite fillings are a safe and mercury-free alternative for patients seeking a more biocompatible solution.
Caring for Composite Fillings and Bonding
With proper care, composite fillings and bonding can last for many years. We recommend maintaining excellent oral hygiene, avoiding biting on hard objects, and visiting our office regularly for checkups. Dr. Lokitis and our team are here to ensure your restorations stay beautiful and functional for as long as possible.
Whether you’re looking to repair damage or enhance your smile’s appearance, composite resin fillings and esthetic bonding are versatile solutions designed to meet your needs. At Northern Virginia Dental Solutions, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a smile that’s as strong as it is stunning.
Learn More Today
At Northern Virginia Dental Solutions, we combine artistry with advanced techniques to ensure your composite restorations look beautiful and feel natural. Let us help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile with customized care tailored to your needs!