New Patients: Mobile Number (760) 284-8111
Existing Patients: Mobile Number (760) 727-3131
21
Oct
Are Composite Restorations a Healthier Choice for Treating Cavities?
Treating decay is essential to restoring your smile’s health and beauty. Composite resin and silver amalgam are the most common fillings for cavity treatment. Today, more patients prefer composite metal-free fillings due to their natural, tooth-colored appearance, which seamlessly blends with their existing teeth. At Shadowridge Dental Group, we are proud to provide these fillings to our patients in San Marcos, California. The answers to these questions give you a better understanding of what to expect from this dental cavity-filling procedure.
What’s the difference between composite and silver amalgam fillings?
Silver amalgam fillings are a mix of metal alloys with mercury added. Composite fillings are a mixture of plastic resin material and powdered glass, with no metal or mercury added. This putty-like material can be tinted to match the color of your tooth enamel to retain your tooth’s natural appearance after treating cavities.
What are the advantages of composite fillings?
Once applied to your tooth, a composite filling will bond directly with the enamel to seal out future decay. At the same time, it strengthens your tooth to keep it from fracturing. Composite fillings don’t require much drilling for their application, which keeps more of your tooth’s natural structure intact. Because of their tooth-colored appearance, your smile will remain attractive after your cavity treatment.
Are composite fillings a healthier choice for treating cavities?
For those with metal allergies, composite fillings are a superior option because they are mercury—and metal-free. There’s also no threat of mercury seeping into the bloodstream and causing health issues.
What’s the process for getting a composite metal-free filling?
Your dentist in San Marcos will begin by removing the decay and thoroughly cleaning the affected tooth. Afterward, a special solution is applied to enhance adhesion. We then prepare the resin mixture and tint it to match the color of your tooth perfectly.
This combination will be applied in stages to the tooth from which the cavity has been removed. Each layer is dried with a special light source to make it solid. After the last layer is placed and given time to dry, we will shape the filling to precisely match the contours of your tooth to preserve your bite. To finish, we will polish your tooth to make it smooth and shiny. Depending on your cavity’s location and size, the full process may take 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
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New Patients: (760) 284-8111 | Existing Patients: (760) 727-3131 REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT
How long do composite fillings last?
With good oral care, composite fillings can last up to 10 years. In addition to daily brushing and flossing, we recommend scheduling routine checkups and cleanings at our practice, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding foods and habits that can put your teeth and fillings at risk.
Where can I go for composite resin cavity treatment near me?
If you live in or near San Marcos, California, visit Shadowridge Dental Group for composite metal-free fillings. Our experienced team is here to provide high-quality care tailored to your needs. We strive to offer comprehensive care in a warm, caring environment, treating our patients like family. Call (760) 284-8111 to speak with Dr. Daniel Huffmire, Dr. James Sorge, or any other team member, and make an appointment today!
We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier, more radiant smile!
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Meet The Doctors
Dr. Huffmie
Dr. Sorge
Dr. Daniel Huffmire is thrilled to be part of the team at Shadowridge Dental Group in Southern California! Dr. Huffmire started his dental career in Idaho, but is happy to be back home in California, serving the people of San Marcos. He is an experienced clinician with excellent bedside manner. Initially a chemist with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Brigham Young University, Dr. Huffmire earned his Master’s in Medical Sciences and Doctor of Dental Medicine from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California.
During his General Practice Residency at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Dr. Huffmire gained experience working with medically compromised patients at the Regional Medical Center and VA clinic. He has advanced training in oral surgery, emergency medicine, sedation, and biomimetic dentistry.
During his General Practice Residency at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Dr. Huffmire gained experience working with medically compromised patients at the Regional Medical Center and VA clinic. He has advanced training in oral surgery, emergency medicine, sedation, and biomimetic dentistry.
Dr. James E. Sorge is a highly respected dentist sought out for his exceptional general and family dental services. A graduate of Brigham Young University, Dr. Sorge earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree with honors from Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland in 1998. With over 23 years of experience practicing dentistry, Dr. Sorge continues to immerse himself in the latest advancements in implantology, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, TMJ disorders, and dental sleep medicine.
Dr. Sorge maintains membership with the American Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry, and American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Dr. Sorge maintains membership with the American Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry, and American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.