White Fillings

Composite fillings, often called "white fillings" or "tooth-colored fillings," represent a significant advancement in modern dentistry, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits compared to traditional amalgam fillings. While both materials serve the primary purpose of restoring damaged teeth, they differ considerably in their composition, application process, and characteristics.

Composition and Material Properties:

Composite fillings are made from a mixture of plastic resins and finely ground glass-like particles. This combination creates a putty-like material that can be precisely matched to your natural tooth color. The material bonds directly to the tooth structure through a chemical and mechanical process, which helps preserve more of the healthy tooth structure during placement. In contrast, amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, primarily silver, tin, copper, and mercury, resulting in their characteristic silver-gray appearance.

Application Process:

The placement of composite fillings requires a more technique-sensitive approach compared to amalgam. The process begins with thoroughly cleaning and preparing the cavity, ensuring it's completely dry - moisture control is crucial for composite fillings. The dentist then applies a bonding agent to create a strong attachment between the tooth and the filling material. The composite is carefully placed in layers, with each layer being hardened using a special blue light (photopolymerization). This layering technique ensures proper curing and prevents gaps or voids in the filling.

Golden Plains Dental: Your Local Expert in Composite Fillings

Serving the communities of Bannockburn, Lethbridge, Inverleigh, Meredith, Teesdale, Maude, and the historic township of Steiglitz, Golden Plains Dental has established itself as a leading provider of composite filling procedures. The clinic's expertise in this specialized area makes it the preferred choice for residents seeking high-quality dental care. Here's why Golden Plains Dental stands out:

1. Advanced Technology and Expertise

• State-of-the-art equipment for precise composite application
• Digital imaging for accurate cavity assessment
• Experienced dentists specially trained in composite filling techniques
• Regular updates on the latest dental materials and procedures

2. Patient-Centered Approach

• Detailed treatment planning and explanation
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lifestyles
• Comfortable, modern facility
• Comprehensive aftercare instructions and support

3. Community Focus

• Understanding of local dental health needs
• Easy accessibility for surrounding communities
• Emergency dental services available
• Strong relationships with local families and residents

4. Quality Assurance

• Use of premium composite materials
• Strict adherence to sterilization protocols
• Regular quality checks on completed procedures
• Long-term follow-up care

Durability and Longevity:

While composite fillings have improved significantly over the years, they typically last 5-10 years with proper care. At Golden Plains Dental, the team's expertise in placement technique and material selection often helps extend this lifespan. Their longevity depends on several factors, including:

• Location of the filling in the mouth
• Size of the filling
• Patient's bite forces
• Oral hygiene habits
• Dietary choices
• Grinding or clenching habits