If you've been told you need a filling, you can expect a composite filling here at Forest Family Dentistry. Composite is a tooth-colored material that blends naturally with your smile, and it's what we use for all of our fillings procedures. Here's what to know about how it works and what to expect.

Why We Use Composite Fillings

• Natural appearance - Composite is shaded to match your tooth, so fillings are virtually undetectable, even on front teeth.
• Bonds directly to the tooth - The composite securely adheres to your natural tooth structure, we're often able to preserve more of your healthy tooth than with older filling materials.
• Versitile - Compostie works well for both front and back teeth, and can be used for a range of repairs beyond cavities, including chipped or worn teeth.
• No mercury content - Composite contains no metal or mercury, which is a plus for patietns who prefer to avoid it.
• Strong, durable bond - Modern composite materials are designed to hold up well to everyday biting and chewing forces.

What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Numbing - The area is numbed with local anesthesia so you're comfortable throughout.
2. Removing decay - Any decay portion of the tooth is carefull removed.
3. Preparing the tooth - The area is cleaned and prepped to hold the composite bond securely
4. Layering the composite - The tooth-colored material is applied in thin layers, with each layer hardened using a curing light.
5. Shape and polising - Your dentist shapes the filling to match your natural bite, then polishes it smooth.

Most composite fillings are completed in a single visit.

Caring for Your Composite Filling

• Brush and floss normally, just as you would with your natural teeth
• Avoid chewing on very hard foods or objects, like ice or hard candy, which can chip any filling
• Keep up with regular dental checkups so your dentist can monitor the filling over time
• Let us know if you notice any sensitivity, roughness, or discomfort after your filling is placed

How Long Do Composite Fillings Last?

With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, composite filling typically lasts 7 to 10 years or longer, depending on the size of the filling and how much daily wear the tooth experiences. Bringing any changes or concerns to your regular visits helps us catch and addres wear early, before it becomes a bigger issue.

Questions About Your Filling?

Whether it's your first filling or you're wondering what to expect from the process, we're happy to walk you through it.

Have a cavity that needs attention? Schedule an appointment with Forest Family Dentistry at one of our Austin or Round Rock locations today!