By Family Dentistry of Forest Hill

Cracked or chipped teeth happen more often than you’d think. Maybe you bit down on something you shouldn’t have, or you took an accidental blow to the mouth, or you just grind your teeth in your sleep. Whatever the reason, a damaged tooth can be uncomfortable and unattractive. The good news? Dentists have ways to fix this, and one of the most popular fixes is composite fillings.

What are composite fillings?

They’re made from a mix of resin and tiny glass particles. You usually hear about them for filling cavities, but they work really well for repairing cracks and chips, too. The best part? Your dentist can match the color to your natural teeth, so no one will notice you had work done—especially if the damage is in a spot everyone can see.

How Can Composite Fillings Help Cracked or Chipped Teeth?

The dentist applies the resin right onto the damaged area, then shapes it to fit your tooth perfectly. After that, a blue LED light hardens it, and it’s polished up to blend right in. The whole composite filling process is quick, usually painless, and you’re done in one visit. Plus, your dentist barely has to touch the healthy part of your tooth, which keeps things firm and stable.

Why do so many people go with composite fillings for this kind of problem?

The most common reason behind this is that they look great. The filling just disappears into your natural tooth. The process is less invasive than getting a crown, so you keep more of your real tooth. They’re also more affordable than crowns or veneers, and they’re strong enough to help you eat and talk without any concern.

Thinking about getting one?

Here’s the process of getting composite fillings:

First, your dentist examines the tooth to see if a composite filling is a good option. If the damage is too serious or extensive, there may be better options, such as a crown. But if a filling will do the job, the dentist cleans up the area, sometimes numbs it, and then layers the resin. Each layer is hardened with an LED light. Once it’s built up, they shape and polish it so it feels and looks right. Before you leave, they’ll make sure your bite feels normal.

Now, composite fillings aren’t a be-all and end-all solution. If the crack runs deep or goes into the root, you’ll probably need something like a crown or a root canal. And if a massive section of your tooth is missing, a filling might not hold up in the long term. In those cases, your dentist will walk you through other options.

Bottom Line

For small cracks and chips, composite fillings are a solid, natural-looking, and budget-friendly way to fix your smile. If you’re dealing with a damaged tooth, talk to our dentist at Family Dentistry of Forest Hill. We’ll help you figure out what works best for your situation so that you can comfortably eat, speak, and smile.

FAQs

1. Can composite fillings be used for large cracks or chips?
Composite fillings are most effective for small to moderate cracks or chips. If the damage is extensive, your dentist may recommend a crown or other restorative treatment.

2. How long do composite fillings last?
With proper care, composite fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on the location of the filling and the amount of wear and tear it experiences.

3. Are composite fillings suitable for front teeth?
Yes, composite fillings are often used for front teeth because they can be easily color-matched to the natural tooth, providing a seamless, aesthetic repair.

4. Is the procedure for composite fillings painful?
The procedure is generally painless, especially for minor cracks or chips. If necessary, your dentist may use local anesthesia to ensure comfort.