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.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.  You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth.  Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today.  Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or more visible areas of the mouth.

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced.  They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.

Reasons for composite fillings:

• Chipped teeth.
  
• Closing space between two teeth.
  
• Cracked or broken teeth.
  
• Decayed teeth.
  
• Worn teeth.

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment.  While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as needed.  The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed.  If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection.  The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling.

You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment.  Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

If you damage your tooth and are searching for a natural-looking restoration, consider restorative bonding. In this procedure, we apply a tooth-colored resin material to your tooth and shape the resin until it matches your naturally occurring tooth. We then harden it in place with a special dental light, effectively bonding it to the tooth. At Lilia S Fiat DMD, Family and Cosmetic Dentistry we will ensure that, regardless of the type of restoration you receive, your smile will look amazing.

Q. Can dental cosmetic bonding fix my child's chipped tooth?

A. Yes, it can. As a cosmetic dentist, we can restore your child's chipped tooth by applying resin to their tooth and shaping it until it matches their natural one. We will use every tool available to match the shade of the resin with the child's surrounding teeth, so it blends in as best as possible. Other people will most likely not notice a difference between the bonding material and the other teeth. The only thing to note is that if the child's teeth are still growing, the child may need a revisit in the future.

Q. Will a tooth bonding procedure be uncomfortable?

A. Not at all. Bonding is a non-invasive procedure and one of the most comfortable restorations you can receive. In order to complete the restoration or to make cosmetic improvements, all we need to do is roughen the tooth slightly and apply a conditioning liquid. Next, we will apply the resin material that matches the shade of your teeth. We will shape the material to match the tooth size as well, before hardening it in place. Since your tooth structure remains intact, you will be comfortable during the procedure. In fact, most people do not need any anesthesia or pain medication for the bonding procedure.

Q. Can Restorative bonding be used to fill gaps in between my teeth?

A. Yes, it can. When you visit our Danvers dental office, we can close small gaps between your teeth using this simple procedure. The bonding procedure is an alternative to placing veneers or crowns or undergoing an orthodontic procedure. Since we can typically complete cosmetic bonding in one dental visit, it is the fastest way to complete this transformation.

Q. Can it reshape my teeth?

A. Yes. Bonding is an excellent way to reshape your teeth. We can use it to lengthen your teeth or change their width. By doing so, your teeth can appear more uniform, and we can eliminate the inconsistencies between your teeth. It only takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth, so reshaping is much easier and faster than people may believe.

Q. Will cosmetic bonding help if my teeth are stained?

A. Yes, if you have stains on your teeth, we can use bonding to cover them. We suggest trying a whitening procedure first since this can improve the appearance of your smile with relative ease. There are times, however, when a whitening procedure is not enough to remove some of the deep or more significant stains. This is where restorative bonding can be particularly useful. We can place the resin material on top of your stained tooth or teeth in order to improve their appearance. When you visit our North Shore dental office, we can discuss your options with you and complete the procedure in as little as one visit.

Q. Is a tooth bonding procedure reversible?

A. Yes, since we apply bonding without removing the enamel on your teeth, the process is reversible. If you want to change course and restore your teeth or change their appearance with an alternative procedure in the future, you can. While most of our patients are satisfied with the appearance of their teeth after the bonding procedure, some use this as a temporary solution while considering more long-term improvements.

Q. Is dental bonding affordable?

A. If budget is a concern, dental bonding is an affordable and viable option. Since we place and harden bonding material in our office, there is no need for participation from the dental lab. This makes the process more cost-effective than getting dental veneers or crowns. If you are weighing your options between the three, let us know. We can give you a breakdown of what each procedure will cost. For more information, call 978-762-4455 and schedule a consultation.

Q. How long will it last?

A. A Restorative bonding procedure is durable, natural-looking, and effective. There is no set timeframe for how long the resin will last. It can last for several decades or several years. Taking care of your teeth will help to increase its longevity. Be sure to brush with a soft or electronic toothbrush, so you do not risk eroding your teeth and your restoration. You need to also avoid eating food that is too acidic, while also avoiding any activities that can break or chip your teeth. While bonding material is strong and durable, it is not as strong as a dental crown can be. If you are looking for a longer lasting restoration, then you may want to consider that option as well.

 Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bonding Danvers

Q. Is dental bonding uncomfortable?

Q. Can dental bonding fix my child’s chipped tooth?

Q. How long will the dental bonding last?

Q. Why do people wear mouth guards?

Q. Why is preventative dental care so important?

Q. What can I do to repair damaged teeth?

Overall, dental bonding can be an effective procedure for patients. Your teeth will look both natural and beautiful once we are done. To learn more or to find out if this procedure is right for you, call our Danvers dental office at 978-762-4455.

Lilia S Fiat DMD, Family and Cosmetic Dentistry was established in 1998.

We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa and Care Credit

We serve patients from the following counties: Essex County, Middlesex County & Sulfolk County

We serve patients from the following cities: Danvers, Peabody, Salem, Middleton, Topsfield, Lynnfield, Saugus, Boxford, Hamilton. Wenham, Beverly, Andover, North Andover, Lynn, Newbury, Newburyport, Rowley, Ipswich, Georgetown, Groveland  

 Massachusetts (License #DN1761550D). 

 National Provider Identifier Database (1457400038)