Name of the Procedure:

Resin-Based Composite - Four or More Surfaces (D2394)

Common Names: Tooth-colored filling, Composite filling

Technical/Medical Terms: Resin-based composite restoration, Composite bonding

Summary

A resin-based composite for four or more surfaces refers to a dental procedure where a tooth-colored resin material is used to fill cavities or restore damaged teeth affecting four or more surfaces of the tooth. This procedure helps in restoring the tooth's function, integrity, and aesthetics.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: Dental cavities, tooth decay, fractured or chipped teeth.
• Goals: To restore the affected tooth's health, appearance, and function, and to prevent further decay.

Indications

• Visible cavities or tooth decay covering several tooth surfaces.
• Fractured teeth needing substantial restoration.
• Discoloration or damage affecting the aesthetics of the tooth.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Inform your dentist of any allergies or existing medical conditions.
• Diagnostics: Dental examination and X-rays to assess the extent of decay or damage.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth.
2. Decay Removal: The dentist removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth.
3. Tooth Preparation: The dentist prepares the tooth surface to ensure good adhesion with the composite material.
4. Application: Layers of the composite resin are applied to the tooth.
5. Curing: Each layer is hardened with a special curing light.
6. Shaping and Polishing: Once all layers are set, the dentist shapes the resin to resemble the natural tooth, then polishes it to smooth out any rough edges.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the extent of the damage and the number of surfaces being restored.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a dentist’s office or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Primary: Dentist
• Support: Dental hygienist, dental assistant

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Sensitivity to hot and cold, discomfort after the procedure.
• Rare Risks: Allergic reactions to the materials, restoration failure, secondary decay.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Restores the natural look of the tooth, improves functionality, prevents further decay.
• Realization: Immediate improvements in appearance and function; complete benefits are realized once recovery is complete.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Avoid eating or drinking until the anesthesia wears off. Follow a soft diet for the first few days.
• Recovery Time: Minor sensitivity might last a few days. Normal activities can typically be resumed immediately.
• Follow-up: Regular check-ups with the dentist to ensure the filling remains intact.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Amalgam (silver) fillings, gold fillings, porcelain fillings.
• Pros and Cons:
  • Amalgam is durable but less aesthetic.
  • Gold and porcelain are more expensive and require more visits.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: You may feel pressure, but the anesthesia should prevent any pain.
• After the Procedure: Some minor discomfort or sensitivity is possible but manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. The filling should feel natural when biting down or speaking.

Pain management and patient comfort measures include the use of local anesthesia during the procedure and recommending appropriate analgesics if needed afterward.