A Guide to the Composite Filling Procedure

Dental fillings are the most common cavity treatment. Composite fillings are a type of filling that may also sometimes treat broken, cracked, or worn teeth. If your child is in need of a cosmetic or restorative dental procedure, a pediatric dentist may recommend using these tooth-colored fillings. Below is a guide to composite fillings that covers their installation, aftercare, and side effects.

Cavity fillings with composite resin

Composite fillings differ from other types of dental fillings because of the “composite” material used to make them. They typically contain a mixture of acrylic resin and powdered glass. Other fillings can contain silver (or amalgam), gold, or glass ionomer. No matter the material, filling a cavity is a multi-step process in which the pediatric dentist will:

Additional steps for a composite filling procedure

Composite filling procedures take about 20 minutes longer than silver amalgam because of the additional steps involved in placing the material in the cavity. The pediatric dentist will apply the composite in layers, hardening each layer with a special light before applying the next layer. After applying and hardening all of the layers, the pediatric dentist will shape, trim, and polish the restoration.

Aftercare for composite fillings

A composite filling will not change a child’s basic oral hygiene routine. As usual, regular brushing and flossing is recommended. Schedule dental checkups every six months or when a problem occurs, such as a chipped, broken, or lost filling.

Side effects of composite fillings

Tooth-colored fillings have many advantages, from durability to the additional benefits of uniform color within a smile (such as a confidence boost). However, there are some side effects.

Tooth sensitivity

One of the most common issues with composite fillings is sensitivity to air, pressure, temperature, or sweet foods. This should go away on its own. If it lasts more than two to four weeks or if the tooth is excessively sensitive, consult a pediatric dentist.

Tooth pain

If the child experiences pain around the composite filling while biting, a pediatric dentist may need to reshape the filling. If the child complains of a toothache and the cavity was originally near the root of the tooth (the pulp), further treatment may be necessary.

Deterioration

The pressure caused by grinding, chewing, or clenching the teeth can chip, wear, or crack fillings. If the seal between the composite filling and the tooth enamel breaks down, bacteria and food particles can infiltrate the tooth, causing decay. A pediatric dentist may need to replace the filling with a crown if the decay is extensive.