Composite fillings in Lugano, Ticino

‍Composite fillings are a modern and aesthetically pleasing solution for treating tooth decay and damaged teeth. Unlike traditional metal fillings, composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin that blends perfectly with natural teeth, providing a discreet and long-lasting way to restore a smile.

‍What are the causes of cavities?

‍Cavities, or dental cavities, develop when plaque builds up on the surface of the tooth, allowing bacteria to convert sugars in foods and drinks into acids. These acids gradually erode the enamel, causing demineralization and the formation of cavities. The most common causes of tooth decay include high sugar intake, poor oral hygiene, frequent snacking, and the absence of fluoride in oral hygiene routines.

‍Why are composite fillings recommended?

‍Composite fillings offer several advantages over traditional fillings:

‍Natural look: Composite fillings match the natural color of the teeth, making them a discreet option.
‍Minimally invasive: Composite fillings require less removal of the healthy dental structure, preserving a larger part of the natural tooth.
‍Strong bond: The material bonds directly to the tooth, providing structural support and durability.

‍Different stages of cavity development

‍Cavities develop gradually, and early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment:

‍Phase 1: Initial or early cavities — These may appear as small white or dark spots on the enamel and may not cause any symptoms. In this phase, the demineralization of the enamel can often be reversed with good oral hygiene and with fluoride.

‍Phase 2: cavities affecting the dentin — Once tooth decay reaches the dentinal layer under the enamel, it can spread more quickly, requiring a composite filling to restore tooth structure and prevent further damage.

‍Phase 3: deep cavities involving the pulp — If tooth decay reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected tissue and prevent serious complications. In more severe cases, extraction may be necessary if the tooth cannot be saved.

‍How are composite fillings applied?

‍When a cavity requires filling, we follow a careful, patient-centered process:

‍prep: The affected area is gently prepared by removing the decayed dental material.
‍Application: We select a shade of composite that matches your natural teeth, then layer the composite resin into the cavity, using a special light to harden each layer.
‍Final touches: Once the padding is complete, we shape and polish it to ensure a comfortable fit that aligns perfectly with the bite.

‍The importance of regular checks

‍Regular dental checkups allow us to detect cavities early, often before they become symptomatic. Early intervention helps prevent extensive damage, minimizing the need for invasive treatments and reducing potential costs. At Alpine Smiles, our advanced 3D diagnostic technology allows us to detect even the smallest cavities, helping you maintain a healthy smile.

‍Prevention of cavities

‍To reduce your risk of tooth decay, follow these preventive tips:

1) Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day
2) Use interdental brushes or dental floss to remove plaque between teeth
3) Limit sugar intake and avoid frequent snacking
4) Rinse with water after consuming acidic or sugary foods and drinks
5) Schedule regular dental checkups

With good oral hygiene and regular professional cleaning, composite fillings can last for many years, preserving the health and appearance of your smile. Contact us today to learn more about composite fillings or to schedule your next check-up in Lugano.