Can Composite Fillings Be Used for Large Cavities?
If you’ve been informed you have a large cavity, you may be asking yourself, can tooth-colored fillings fix big cavities? This is a question asked by patients who want to have their teeth restored without metal fillings. Composite, or tooth-colored, fillings are usually reserved for small to medium-sized cavities. What about large ones, though?
Let’s take a closer look at when and how these types of fillings can be applied for larger dental issues.
What are Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings consist of a combination of plastic and tiny glass particles. They blend in with the color of your teeth, so they’re also referred to as tooth-colored or white fillings.
Composite material bonds to the tooth itself, so less drilling is required. That’s just one reason composite fillings in Worcester have gained popularity among patients and dentists alike.
Are They Strong Enough?
Generally, white fillings are very durable and resilient to chewing. However, the strength of white fillings varies with the size of the cavity and where it is. Small fillings can withstand many years as long as they receive good care. But when the cavity is large, then the tooth framework is too weak to withstand the filling by itself.
However, using white fillings for large cavities is feasible in certain situations. Your dentist will examine the extent of the tooth affected and the position of the cavity before concluding whether a composite filling is ideal for you.
When Is a Composite Filling a Good Option?
Tooth-colored fillings might be used for big cavities in some parts of the mouth. If the cavity is on a front tooth or where there is less pressure from biting, a composite can be all that is required. Dentists also use layers of the filling material to build it up and make it more durable.
Every case is unique. If you’re not sure, it’s always better to go to a dental clinic near you and have the dentist check your tooth personally.
When Is Another Treatment Necessary?
There are some instances when a filling may not be sufficient. If a tooth has lost most of its structure, a crown or some other restoration would be more suitable. Crowns cap the whole tooth and offer more protection than fillings.
If you attempt to repair a very big cavity with just a filling, it may crack or fall out eventually. This may cause pain or require additional dental work in the future.
What Does the Process Look Like?
One visit is generally needed to get a white filling. The dentist first removes the part of the tooth that has decayed. The filling material is then put in layers and cured with a special light.
For bigger fillings, the dentist will spend longer shaping and adding to the filling so it’s comfortable and doesn’t interfere with your bite. Most people who inquire can tooth-colored fillings fix big cavities are amazed at how natural the result can be.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Even for larger areas, white fillings have numerous advantages:
- They appear more natural than metal fillings
- Less of your tooth must be drilled out
- They adhere well to the tooth
- They don’t get as hard and soft, making them less likely to develop cracks
That said, using white fillings for large cavities should always be done with care. The tooth should be in good enough health that it is capable of retaining the filling long-term.
How to Make Fillings Last
Whether your filling is small or large, you’ll want to protect it. Here are some tips:
- Brush and floss daily
- Avoid biting down on hard objects
- Visit your dentist for checkups
- Let your dentist know if your bite feels uneven
Following these steps will help your composite filling last as long as possible.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of a composite filling can depend on how large the cavity is and where it is in your mouth. Larger fillings may take more time and materials, so they might cost a little more.
You can call your insurance provider to see how much is covered. If you’re looking for options, your dental clinic near you may offer payment plans or ways to make care more affordable.
Discuss It with a Dentist You Trust
Should you have a big cavity and feel uncertain about which filling is appropriate, don’t panic. At Worcester Dentist Group, we will be able to assist you in determining the best choice for your smile. Our dentist can investigate your tooth, discuss your issues with you, and determine whether or not a composite filling will be suitable.
Whether you need to deal with a toothache or simply need to fill a cavity with a material that matches your natural teeth, your local dentist is here to assist you. Let us pamper your dental care with attention and care. Schedule an appointment today and discover how we can make your next filling easy and hassle-free.