Lumin8 Dentistry provides composite fillings in Lakewood, WA. Call (253) 581-6140 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Nobody wants to learn they have a cavity, but the good news is that modern solutions are now faster, more comfortable, and far more attractive than ever before. Gone are the days of mercury-filled amalgam fillings. Composite fillings restore your tooth’s health and strength while maintaining the natural charm of your smile, giving you a solution that’s as functional as it is discreet. At Lumin8 Dentistry, we use advanced composite materials that match the color of your enamel and require less removal of healthy tooth structure. Unlike traditional metal fillings, these resin-based restorations bond chemically to your teeth, allowing you to keep more of your natural tooth while still effectively addressing decay.Why Choose Composite Fillings
Composite fillings provide several advantages over conventional amalgam fillings. The material bonds directly to your tooth structure, creating a strong seal that helps prevent future decay. Restorative dentistry focuses on rebuilding damaged teeth, and composite fillings play a key role in this process. The tooth-colored material allows us to preserve more of your natural tooth. Metal fillings require the creation of specific shapes and undercuts to stay in place, which means removing healthy tooth structure. Composite resin bonds chemically to your tooth, so we only need to remove the decayed portion. You also get immediate results. There’s no waiting period after placement. You can eat and drink as soon as the numbness wears off. The material hardens quickly under a special curing light, allowing you to return to your normal routine without delay.The Composite Filling Process
Getting a composite filling typically takes one appointment. We start by numbing the area around your tooth to ensure you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. Once you’re relaxed, we carefully remove the decayed portion of your tooth. After cleaning the area, we prepare the tooth surface for bonding. The composite material is applied in layers, with each coat hardened using a specialized curing light. This layering technique allows us to precisely match the natural contours of your tooth. We mold and polish the filling to match your bite and ensure it feels natural. The entire process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the filling. You leave with a restored tooth that looks and functions just like your natural teeth.Advanced Technology for Better Results
Caring for Your Composite Fillings
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day to prevent new decay from forming around your fillings.
- Schedule regular cleanings and checkups to monitor your fillings and catch potential issues early.
- Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or crack nuts, as composite fillings can chip or crack under excessive force.
- Let us know if you grind your teeth at night so we can recommend a night guard to safeguard both your natural teeth and your fillings.
When Composite Fillings Make Sense
Composite fillings work best for small to medium-sized cavities in any part of your mouth. They’re particularly popular for front teeth, where appearance matters most, but they also perform well in back teeth that handle more chewing pressure. You might also benefit from composite fillings if you have an old metal filling that needs to be replaced. Many patients choose to replace their visible metal fillings with tooth-colored ones for a more uniform smile. We can evaluate your existing fillings and discuss whether replacement would benefit you. Some situations may require alternative treatments. Large cavities might need a crown for adequate protection. Very deep decay may require root canal treatment before we can place a filling. We’ll always recommend the treatment that best addresses your specific situation.Preventing Future Cavities
The best filling is the one you never need. Regular dental visits help us catch decay in its earliest stages when treatment is simpler and less invasive. According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 92% of adults ages 20 to 64 have had cavities in their permanent teeth, underscoring the importance of preventive care for sustaining oral health. During your preventive appointments, we also apply fluoride treatments when appropriate to strengthen your enamel. Your diet plays a substantial role in cavity prevention. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, which feed the bacteria that cause decay. When you do enjoy sweets, brush your teeth afterward or at least rinse your mouth with water. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water helps wash away food and bacteria. It also helps support healthy saliva production, which naturally protects your teeth from decay.Restore Your Smile at Lumin8 Dentistry
Dr. Jun Carrington and our team at Lumin8 Dentistry bring years of experience and advanced training to every restoration we create. Dr. Carrington completed comprehensive training at the prestigious Kois Center and continues to stay current with the newest developments in dental materials and techniques. Our modern office in the heart of Lakewood combines cutting-edge technology with a warm, welcoming environment, and we’re proud to serve military families and local residents from Joint Base Lewis-McChord and surrounding communities. Contact us today to schedule your appointment. Whether you need a filling now or want to discuss preventive care, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. You can also learn more about our team and the personalized care we provide to every patient who walks through our doors.Affiliations & Education
