When a tooth has a cavity, Dr. Steven Ross may recommend a dental filling in Salinas, California. Our dentist will remove the decayed area of the tooth and then fill the tooth. Fillings can also be used to repair teeth that are cracked, chipped, broken, or worn down.

Our dentist uses composite, or tooth-colored, fillings. Composite fillings are made of plastic and glass materials. Composite fillings have many advantages over other filling types. They are aesthetic because they can be closely matched to the color of your natural teeth. Composite fillings are especially desirable for use in the front teeth or visible parts of teeth. Composites are chemically bonded to your tooth structure, which gives them further support. In many cases, less tooth structure needs to be removed when preparing for a composite filling than for an amalgam filling. Composite fillings are versatile. They can also be used to repair teeth that are chipped, broken, cracked, or worn down.

When filling a tooth, our dentist will use a drill, air abrasion instrument, or laser to remove the cavity. Our dentist will probe the area to ensure that all of the decay has been removed, then clean the area of bacteria and debris. The composite filling is then applied in layers. Each layer is cured with a curing light. Our dentist will shape, trim, and polish the final filling.

To learn more and to schedule an appointment, contact Ross Family Dental today.