Services
Dental Restorations in Ituiutaba, Brazil
Dental restoration is the treatment that returns form, function, and aesthetics to a tooth affected by decay, fracture, or wear. In Ituiutaba, Dra. Maria Vitória Lima works with high-quality composite resins, 3M Filtek Z100 for private-pay patients and Z350 for insurance patients, light-cured with a Schuster LED device and current adhesive protocols. Each restoration is planned to preserve as much healthy dental structure as possible and return the tooth to the most natural appearance achievable.
What is Dental Restorations?
Dental restoration is the procedure that rebuilds a portion of a tooth that's been lost, whether to cavities (the most common cause), fracture (trauma, biting a hard object), wear (bruxism, acid erosion), or the need to replace an old restoration that has failed. The goal is to return what was lost: anatomical shape, chewing function, strength, and aesthetics. There are two major restoration types, classified by where the piece is made. The direct restoration, popularly called a 'filling', is done entirely in-office, in a single appointment, with composite resin applied directly to the prepared cavity, shaped anatomically, and light-cured (hardened) with specialized LED. It's the most common form, indicated for the vast majority of cases. The indirect restoration, called an inlay (cavities within the cusps), onlay (cavities involving one or more cusps), or overlay (covering the entire occlusal surface), is fabricated outside the mouth, in a prosthetic lab, from an impression of the prepared tooth. The finished piece is then cemented in a second appointment. Indirect is the option for larger dental losses, where the piece needs to be stronger than direct resin. At Dra. Maria's clinic, we work with composite resins from the 3M Filtek line, a global reference in restorative dentistry. For private-pay patients, we use Filtek Z100, a microhybrid resin with excellent strength and durability, ideal for areas under chewing load. For insurance patients, we use Filtek Z350, a nanohybrid resin with finer filler particles, offering superior polish and premium aesthetics, also indicated for anterior teeth. Both have decades of clinical research backing and are made by the same company (3M). Light-curing, the step that transforms the soft applied resin into a hard, durable material, is done with a Schuster LED device (a recognized Brazilian manufacturer of dental equipment), with an orange protective filter for patient and team (filters the intense blue light from the device, protecting eyes during polymerization). We don't use amalgam (the 'silver filling' from earlier generations). Amalgam is an alloy of mercury, silver, copper, tin, and zinc, has a metallic color that contrasts with the tooth and has been progressively replaced by aesthetic materials throughout modern dentistry. The Minamata Convention (UN, 2013), signed by Brazil, calls for reducing dental mercury use, and the Federal Council of Dentistry (CFO) has been guiding the transition to aesthetic alternatives.
When is it recommended?
When to consider
Dental restoration is the indicated treatment whenever there's dental structure loss that can be rebuilt without the need for a more invasive intervention. In other words: as long as there's enough tooth left to serve as a base, restoration is the option. When the tooth is severely compromised, generally when more than 50% of the dental crown is lost, when pulp tissue (nerve) is exposed or compromised, or when there's a fracture involving the root, the indication shifts to crown, root canal treatment, or in some cases extraction. The day-to-day of restorative dentistry involves five main scenarios.
Dental cavities, from the early stage (white spot, enamel lesion) to advanced cavities that haven't yet reached the nerve. The restoration removes decayed tissue and rebuilds the tooth
Dental fractures, fragment breaks from trauma (fall, blow), biting an unexpected hard food (bone, olive pit), or progressive tooth weakening
Dental wear, abrasion (from very aggressive brushing), acid erosion (reflux, excessive citrus consumption, bulimia), or bruxism wear (clenching or grinding during sleep)
Cervical abfraction, small wedge-shaped losses at the gum line, generally caused by occlusal overload or bruxism
Replacement of old restorations, amalgam restorations with leakage, darkened or fractured resins, restorations with recurrent cavities at the edge
Small aesthetic defects on anterior teeth, closing small diastemas (spaces between teeth), rebuilding a slightly fractured incisal edge, correcting small shape alterations
Localized stains and pigmentations, when teeth whitening doesn't resolve specific stains, an aesthetic restoration can mask them locally
Enamel hypoplasia, enamel formation alterations that leave the tooth with an opaque or yellow appearance in specific areas
Coverage of exposed surfaces, when there's gum recession exposing root, the restoration protects the area and decreases sensitivity
Increased dental sensitivity in specific areas, when other measures (desensitizing toothpaste, topical fluoride) don't resolve
How does the procedure work?
How we run your treatment
The step-by-step of a restoration varies in complexity according to type, location, and extent of the cavity. Small restorations on anterior teeth or easy-access surfaces can be completed in 30 minutes. Larger restorations on posterior teeth with multiple faces involved, or on anterior aesthetics with several resin increments, can take 45 minutes to 1 hour. The modern procedure is technically safe, with most steps depending on precision and calm, not force or speed. The choice between direct and indirect happens at the initial evaluation, according to the size of dental loss.
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Clinical and radiographic evaluation
Before starting, we examine the tooth clinically (mirror, exploratory probe) and, when necessary, with interproximal radiograph (showing cavities between teeth) or periapical (showing the whole tooth structure and root). We define cavity extent, the indicated restoration type, and discuss the procedure. You leave knowing exactly what will be done.
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Local anesthesia (when needed)
Superficial cavities that don't reach deep dentin often don't require anesthesia, there's no contact with sensitive tooth areas. Medium to deep cavities that approach the nerve, or patients with increased sensitivity, receive local anesthesia, generally lidocaine or articaine, with infiltrative technique (anesthesia around the tooth) or regional block (broader anesthesia). The effect begins in 2 to 5 minutes and lasts 2 to 4 hours.
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Isolation of the operative field
Before applying resin, we isolate the area to keep it dry, the presence of saliva or moisture contaminates the adhesive interface and compromises restoration durability. For posterior cases, we use absolute isolation with rubber dam (complete tooth isolation). For simple anterior cases, relative isolation with cotton rolls and saliva ejector.
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Removal of decayed tissue
With cooled high and low-speed burs, we remove only the decayed tissue (soft, infiltrated), preserving as much healthy enamel and dentin as possible. The modern concept of minimally invasive dentistry guides us: remove only what needs to be removed. After removal, the cavity has clean walls and defined edges, ready to receive adhesive and resin.
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Acid etching and adhesive system
We apply 37% phosphoric acid on enamel and dentin for 15 to 30 seconds, this etching creates micro-retentions on the dental surface, improving resin adherence. After rinsing and gentle drying, we apply the adhesive system (primer + bond), which we light-cure with the Schuster LED device for 10 to 20 seconds. This adhesive creates the 'chemical bridge' between natural tooth and restorative resin.
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Composite resin application in increments
The resin (Filtek Z100 for private-pay, Z350 for insurance) is applied in thin layers, generally 2mm at a time, to ensure complete light-curing of each increment. Each layer is shaped with specific instruments and light-cured for 20 to 40 seconds with the LED. This incremental technique, considered gold standard by modern restorative dentistry, reduces polymerization contraction and decreases the risk of post-operative sensitivity. For anterior aesthetic areas, we can use several overlapping resin shades to reproduce the natural nuances of the tooth (depth effect, incisal edge translucency, dentin opacity).
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Finishing, polishing, and occlusal adjustment
After complete resin application, we do the finishing with burs and abrasive discs: we remove excess, refine the occlusal anatomy (grooves and cusps of the tooth), and contour the natural shape. We verify the bite with articulating paper: you bite and we identify high points that need adjustment, a restoration with a high spot causes discomfort and overload. We finish with polishing through a sequence of discs, cups, and abrasive pastes, leaving the resin surface smooth and shiny, similar to natural enamel. Adequate polishing preserves aesthetics and makes plaque accumulation harder.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary by case. After a clinical evaluation, we present treatment options and payment terms. Inquire about pricing and conditions directly on WhatsApp.
Aftercare
Aftercare after the visit
Aftercare following a restoration is simple and most patients return to normal activities immediately. When the restoration was done with anesthesia, the effect lasts 2 to 4 hours, avoid chewing on the anesthetized side during this period, because the lip, cheek, or tongue are numb and there's risk of biting your own tissues without realizing. After the effect passes, eating can return to normal: the light-cured resin is fully hardened the moment you leave the office. Post-operative sensitivity is common, especially to cold, and occurs in a significant portion of restorations. It appears in the first days and tends to progressively decrease over 1 to 4 weeks. Causes: removal of decayed tissue left the tooth temporarily closer to the nerve, resin polymerization generated small contraction that temporarily sensitizes, or the adhesive is in the sealing process. If sensitivity persists beyond 4 weeks, is very intense, or also appears to heat (a sign of pulpal inflammation), we return for re-evaluation, there may be need for adjustment or, in rare cases, indication for root canal treatment. Rigorous hygiene preserves the tooth-restoration interface: the border between natural enamel and resin is the most vulnerable point to recurrent caries (cavities returning in the same region). Proper brushing with fluoridated toothpaste, daily flossing (especially in restorations with interproximal face), and semi-annual reviews are decisive for durability. Well-made and well-cared-for resin restorations last between 5 and 10 years on average, with some cases reaching 15 years. Large restorations on posterior teeth last less than small ones on anterior teeth, simply because of the greater chewing load.
Wait for anesthesia to wear off (2 to 4 hours) before eating solid foods on the anesthetized side, risk of biting lip, cheek, or tongue without realizing
After anesthesia wears off, you can eat normally, the resin is already fully hardened and supports chewing immediately
Cold sensitivity in the first days is normal and decreases progressively over 1 to 4 weeks
If there's heat sensitivity or spontaneous pain (without stimulus), return for re-evaluation, may indicate pulpal inflammation
Avoid biting very hard objects: ice, bones, olive pits, pens, fingernails, large restorations can crack or fracture
Brush your teeth 2 to 3 times a day with soft brush, gentle technique, and fluoride toothpaste, aggressive brushing accelerates resin wear
Use floss daily, especially in interproximal restorations (between teeth), the restoration edge region is the most prone to new cavities
Reduce consumption of heavily pigmented foods (coffee, red wine, açaí, beets, soy sauce), resin absorbs stains over the years, and periodic polishing helps maintain aesthetics
If you smoke or consume coffee frequently, consider repolishing every 6 to 12 months to preserve appearance
In bruxism cases, wear a night guard, chronic clenching prematurely fractures large restorations
Get semi-annual reviews alongside dental cleaning, we re-evaluate restoration integrity, signs of marginal leakage, and any recurrent cavity at the edge
Don't try to re-glue restoration fragments with home glue if they fall, return to the clinic for proper redo
Frequently asked questions
Resin or amalgam ('silver fillings')?
Composite resin is the standard material of modern dentistry: aesthetic (natural tooth color), chemically adherent to dental structure (doesn't need mechanical retention like amalgam), and with excellent durability when properly indicated. We work exclusively with composite resins, Filtek Z100 for private-pay patients and Z350 for insurance patients, both from 3M, a global reference. We don't use amalgam. Beyond the aesthetic question (metallic color visible when smiling or opening the mouth), there are broader reasons: amalgam contains mercury, and the Minamata Convention (signed by Brazil) calls for progressive reduction of dental use. The CFO itself guides the transition to aesthetic alternatives. If you have old amalgam restorations in good condition, they don't need to be replaced just for aesthetics, but when they do need replacement, it'll be with resin.How long does a resin restoration last?
Well-made and well-cared-for composite resin restorations last, on average, between 5 and 10 years, some cases reach 15 years or more. Durability depends on several factors: cavity size (small restorations last longer than large ones), tooth location (anterior teeth last longer than posterior because of lower chewing load), home hygiene quality, presence of bruxism, dietary habits, and periodic reviews. When a restoration fails, it's generally due to recurrent caries at the edge (caused by leakage between tooth and resin), fracture from overload, or simply progressive wear. Semi-annual review identifies these signs early, before they become bigger problems.Will the restoration hurt? Will I need anesthesia?
Superficial cavities that don't reach deep dentin can be restored without anesthesia, there's no contact with sensitive tooth areas. Medium to deep cavities that approach the nerve generally require local anesthesia for your comfort. We use lidocaine or articaine (modern, safe anesthetics), with thin needle, gentle technique, and prior application of topical anesthetic gel on the gum, most patients barely feel the prick. During the procedure, with anesthesia working, you feel only the vibration of the burs and slight pressure; there's no pain. If you feel any discomfort, just raise your hand, we stop immediately. Patients with dental phobia or high sensitivity can receive slightly larger doses or in more points to ensure full comfort.Why am I sensitive after the restoration?
Post-operative sensitivity, especially to cold, is common in the first days to a few weeks after restoration. Several causes contribute: removal of decayed tissue left the tooth temporarily closer to the nerve, resin polymerization generated small contraction that can sensitize the interface, and the adhesive is in the complete sealing process. Sensitivity tends to decrease progressively over 1 to 4 weeks. For relief during this period, use toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth (potassium nitrate or arginine-based). If sensitivity persists beyond 4 weeks, is very intense, or also appears to heat or as spontaneous pain (without stimulus, at any moment), return for re-evaluation, may indicate need for adjustment in the contact point, or in rare cases, pulpal inflammation requiring root canal treatment.What's the difference between Z100 and Z350?
Both are composite resins from the 3M Filtek line, with excellent clinical qualities and decades of research. Filtek Z100, which we use for private-pay patients, is a microhybrid resin: it has larger filler particles that confer high mechanical strength, ideal for chewing-load areas (posterior teeth). Filtek Z350 XT, which we use for insurance patients, is a nanohybrid resin: it has very fine filler particles (nanoparticles), conferring superior polish, shine closer to natural enamel, and better aesthetics, ideal especially for anterior teeth. In terms of clinical quality, both are considered high standard; the difference is more in the specific properties of each. Case-by-case indication is defined by restoration location and clinical characteristics, not just by the patient's plan.Will an anterior tooth restoration be aesthetic? Will I see the difference?
Yes, with proper technique, anterior tooth restoration can be practically invisible. We use composite resins with a color system that reproduces the natural nuances of the tooth, more opaque dentin at the base, more translucent enamel at the edges, possible incisal transparency halo. The incremental application, with different overlapping shades, recreates the three-dimensional effect of the natural tooth. Small restorations (filling small diastemas, rebuilding slightly fractured edges, closing small cavities) usually become totally indistinguishable from the natural tooth. Larger restorations require more shaping time and color selection attention, in some cases, we can use mock-up technique beforehand so you can visualize the planned result before starting.How long does the restoration appointment take?
Depends on complexity. A small restoration on a single tooth without major aesthetic demand generally takes 30 to 45 minutes. Larger restorations on posterior teeth with multiple faces (mesial-occlusal-distal, for example), or on anterior aesthetics with multiple color increments, can take up to 1 hour. When there's more than one tooth to restore, we schedule separate sessions or a longer period according to your availability. We don't work in a hurry, a restoration done with time and attention lasts much longer than one done quickly.Can I eat right after the restoration?
Yes, the composite resin is fully hardened the moment you leave the office, light-curing finishes the process during the appointment itself. The only consideration: if you received anesthesia, wait 2 to 4 hours for the effect to wear off before eating solid foods on the anesthetized side. During this numbness period, there's risk of biting lip, cheek, or tongue without realizing. After anesthesia wears off, completely normal eating, including hard and hot foods. Some people prefer to avoid heavily pigmented foods (coffee, red wine, açaí) in the first 24-48 hours so the resin completes the adhesive sealing process without absorbing pigments, it's not mandatory, but it's an extra precaution.How do I know if an old restoration needs to be replaced?
Several signs indicate that an old restoration has reached the end of its useful life: darkened edges (black line on the contour between tooth and resin, sign of leakage); visible fracture in the resin; recurrent cavity at the edge (new cavity around the old restoration); restoration with looseness, mobility, or that falls out easily; spontaneous sensitivity in the restored tooth; yellow stain or significant color change in the resin (indicates aging). Old amalgam restorations showing dark lines around them (sign of leakage) or sensitivity symptoms are also replacement candidates. We identify these signs at semi-annual reviews, the earlier the replacement, the less additional dental structure loss.Can I restore a tooth that already had a root canal?
Yes, but with careful indication. Teeth that have received root canal treatment become more fragile (the removed pulp tissue had a structural role). For small restorations on anterior teeth treated endodontically, direct resin may be sufficient. For large restorations on posterior teeth treated endodontically, the appropriate indication is generally a crown, because the crown wraps around all the remaining structure and protects the tooth against fracture, which is the main cause of loss of endodontically treated teeth. When the case calls for a crown after a root canal, we refer to the prosthodontist in our regional network, maintaining the general accompaniment.Do resin restorations stain or darken over time?
Yes, in some cases the resin can darken or absorb stains over the years, especially in patients who regularly consume coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, or smoke. Correct resin polymerization and adequate polishing at the time of consultation minimize this effect, but over time the surface may lose shine and absorb pigments. Solution: professional repolishing every 6 to 12 months can restore the original shine without needing to redo the restoration. For heavily marked stains, or to harmonize tone after teeth whitening, replacing the resin with a new one in the correct color may be necessary. For anterior teeth where aesthetics is a priority, we discuss these considerations in planning.Is it true that restoration 'weakens' the tooth?
Not directly. What weakens the tooth is the cavity or fracture that motivated the restoration, when there's significant dental structure loss, even the best restoration doesn't completely replace the structural function of the original tooth. In very large cavities (more than 50% of crown lost), the tooth becomes vulnerable to fracture even after restoration, that's why, in these situations, the indication is often a crown instead of resin, precisely to protect what remains. The resin restoration itself, when properly indicated and done with correct technique, adequate adherence, and size proportional to loss, reinforces and protects the tooth. Poorly indicated or poorly done restorations (resin too large without prosthetic reinforcement, undiagnosed marginal leakage) can compromise the tooth, hence the importance of adequate clinical indication and periodic follow-up.
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