Cavities and small fractures leave many teeth with defects that progress over time if untreated. In the past, metal restorations served a need but left many teeth discolored and strained from the wedging effect of the metal. Today, tooth-colored composites blending into tooth structure provide an excellent option for restoring defects. Composites can often be placed in thinner layers than metal, preserving more of the natural tooth.
Composites serve both functional and aesthetic roles, often at the same time. For example, a cavity invading the front of a tooth along the gum line may be visible in your smile. By gently cleaning out the soft, discolored area the decay ceases to destroy healthy mineral surfaces. And when a composite shade matching the tooth is sculpted into place, the tooth looks better than ever.
Composites contain a mix of liquid resin embedded with finely ground glass particles. After being molded against conditioned tooth structure, blue light applied directly to the composite leads to a firm set within seconds. Shaped and polished, a high shine reflecting the beauty of natural enamel results in an invisible restoration: strong, smooth, conservative.
Shoreline Dental Studio is represented by a group of warm, caring, intelligent and compassionate individuals. These health professionals work hard to make every experience at Shoreline Dental Studio an exceptional one. You can learn a little more about each of them below.
Your experience matters. Explore our patients’ testimonials and see why we’re their first choice in dental care.
“Best dental experience ever! Everyone is so sweet, caring and incredibly knowledgeable and confident. I was super nervous about going to dentist after not having gone for awhile but as soon as stepped into the studio I felt like I was in good, loving hands and had nothing to worry about! Everyone is so great about creating a calm and friendly experience:) Dr. Livingston is the best!”
Becca B
“It’s a friendly, welcoming and stress free environment. From the candle in the reception area to the windows in the treatment rooms looking out on a garden, it feels very non-dentist like, which is actually a good thing. They addressed the issue I had come in for and didn’t try to upsell me on other unnecessary treatments. I actually found a dentist’s office that I like!”
Rhonda H
Experience the compassionate care that sets us apart. Schedule your visit and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile!
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If left unchecked, tooth decay can destroy your smile. Your dentist can remove the decayed area and replace it with a composite resin created to match the color of your teeth to “fill in” the tooth and prevent the spread of decay.
The composite filling hardens almost immediately as your dentist applies blue light, so you don’t need to wait after your appointment! Many will recommend waiting an hour or two, however, to allow swelling to go down and stop you from biting your numbed cheek or tongue!
This type of filling can last up to 10 years, sometimes even longer, especially if the filling is small and the patient maintains good oral health.
Composite fillings are made of liquid resin and powdered glass. This can be adjusted to match the color of your teeth, creating a seamless finish.
No, this is a very safe option. There’s some concern about the presence of BPA in some composite fillings (in extremely small amounts), but the American Dental Association has determined that there isn’t currently sufficient evidence to link composite fillings with any potential health risk for patients. It is far more dangerous to leave tooth decay or a cavity untreated!
