Sep
When diagnosed with a cavity, many patients are unsure as to how to proceed with treatment. At Shandley Kane Dental of Hoffman Estates, Illinois, our providers are here to assist! We offer composite resin dental fillings as a cavity treatment for a tooth, relying on a commonly used material and quality placement. With proper care, patients can enjoy their cavity treatment for many, many years! Let’s take a look at some of the frequently asked questions about composite resin dental fillings.
Dental fillings are unique materials used to restore a natural tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma. They are typically made of composite resin, a mix of plastic and glass particles that can be color-matched to blend in with the patient’s teeth. In the past, silver amalgam has been commonly used in dental practices, and it is still used in some practices today. However, these fillings are easy to spot in the smile, and there are concerns about mercury toxicity associated with this material. Composite resin dental fillings essentially serve as a protective barrier for the remaining healthy tooth structure and prevent further decay or infection.
Composite resin fillings are preferred over other materials for several reasons. Firstly, they provide a more natural appearance, as they can be color-matched to blend perfectly with the rest of the teeth. This is especially beneficial for patients who want to maintain a beautiful smile without visible metal or silver fillings. Additionally, our composite resin fillings require less removal of the healthy tooth structure compared to other materials, allowing for a more conservative and minimally invasive treatment approach.
Generally, composite resin fillings are considered safe and pose minimal risks. Unlike silver amalgam fillings, they do not contain any mercury, which has been a concern for some patients. We encourage patients to consider resin over amalgam fillings for health and aesthetics.
During your cavity filling appointment at Shandley Kane Dental, our dentists first assess the severity of the cavity and determine if a composite resin filling is the best course of action. If so, they then carefully remove any decayed or damaged areas of the tooth using specialized tools. The treated area is thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the filling. Drs. Steven J. Shandley, M. Elizabeth Kane, and Colleen Shandley then apply layers of composite resin to fill in the cavity and shape it to match the natural contours of your tooth. A special light is used to harden the material and bond it securely to your tooth. Finally, any excess material is polished for a smooth finish.
If you are a resident of the Hoffman Estates, Illinois, area and want to speak to a provider at our office about the benefits of treating cavities with dental fillings, we invite you to call (847) 428-4646 to reach Drs. Steven J. Shandley, M. Elizabeth Kane, and Colleen Shandley. The office is open to new patients and is conveniently located at 4885 Hoffman Boulevard, Suite #300.
Dr. Steven J. Shandley, DDS
With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Steven Shandley is known for his personalized, patient-centered approach to dental care. A Northwestern University Dental School graduate, where he served as Class President, Dr. Shandley expanded his expertise through a residency at Illinois Masonic Medical Center, eventually becoming Chief Resident. He founded his private practice in 1982, focusing on providing high-quality, individualized treatment. His dedication to patient well-being and commitment to developing unique care plans ensures that you can trust him to provide the best care for your dental needs.
Dr. M. Elizabeth Kane, DDS
Dr. Elizabeth Kane has been delivering compassionate, high-quality dental care for over four decades. A Northwestern University Dental School graduate, she pursued advanced training at the University of Illinois Hospital, focusing on complex cases in a medical setting. Known for her attention to detail and commitment to staying current with the latest advancements, Dr. Kane ensures her patients receive the most effective care. You can trust her to provide thoughtful, esthetic dental solutions tailored to your individual needs, building long-term relationships with her patients based on care and trust.
Dr. Colleen Shandley, DDS
Dr. Colleen Shandley brings advanced skills and a patient-first approach to Shandley Kane Dental, joining the practice in 2019 after graduating cum laude from Marquette University School of Dentistry. Her hospital-based residency at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center provided extensive experience in managing complex dental cases. Dr. Colleen’s dedication to ongoing education and her involvement in dental outreach programs reflect her commitment to providing the highest quality of care. You can trust her to offer compassionate, personalized treatment while ensuring your dental health is her top priority.