Composite Dental Fillings in Encinitas, CA
Dental decay, or caries, is one of the most common medical conditions that people face. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, dental decay is so prevalent, it is second only to the common cold.
Caries is an infection, caused by bacteria, that creates an acidic environment in your mouth. The acid created by these bacteria eats away at your enamel, causing dental decay. Dental decay does not go away on its own and requires treatment to protect the health of your tooth. At Dr. Ryan Kay’s office, we provide composite, tooth-colored fillings to protect and seal your tooth.
Benefits of Composite Fillings
Composite fillings have both health and aesthetic benefits. They require removal of less of your healthy tooth structure, leaving more of your natural tooth intact compared to amalgam fillings. This means greater tooth stability, and it also enables us to place more conservative restorations.
The aesthetic benefits compared to amalgam fillings are impressive. Not only are composite fillings tooth-colored, but we can match the shade of your tooth so closely that no one will ever notice you have a filling, even in the front! Composite fillings are strong and long lasting with the proper care. We work hard to create beautiful and comfortable dentistry, and you can protect it by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and having professional dental cleanings and exams on a regular basis.
When Dr Kay places a filling, he will gently remove all of the decay in your tooth and sterilize the area. Then he will prepare your tooth for your new composite filling. Once he matches your tooth’s color, he will apply the composite in layers, allowing each to harden until he completely fills in the cavity in your tooth.
His final touches include shaping your new filling and polishing it so that it blends seamlessly with your natural smile. Dr. Kay has a real eye for detail and will make sure your filling seals your tooth effectively to avoid future decay.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
If you have small imperfections in your smile you want to address, we might be able to use composite material to make improvements. Little flaws such as chips, gaps, oddly shaped teeth, and damaged teeth may benefit from cosmetic dental bonding.
Because composite material blends so well with your natural teeth, it is great for fixing smaller cosmetic issues. Another benefit is that we add the bonding material to your existing tooth structure, so it is non-invasive.
Are You Ready for an Appointment?
Are you interesting in composite fillings or cosmetic dental bonding? Give our Encinitas dental office a call and schedule an evaluation with Ryan Kay DMD. He and our entire team look forward to partnering with you for a healthy dental future.
Dentistry has made dramatic improvements in techniques as well as materials. In the past, amalgam (silver) fillings were common, and while they are highly functional, they can create a dark hue and cause shadows in your smile. Additionally, fillings only last so long, usually between five and fifteen years depending on your oral habits, bite, and if you grind your teeth. Once they start to break down, they can create a place for bacteria to enter your teeth and cause secondary decay.