What Do We Make Your Fillings From?
When a cavity develops, your tooth could begin to feel sensitive and ache, and over time, could become vulnerable to infection, or possibly even tooth loss. In order to treat the issue and preserve the beauty and function of your tooth, we may suggest a filling. In today’s blog, your Independence, MO, dentist looks at the materials we use to create a dental filling.
A cavity forms when the inner dentin, which make up most of your tooth structure, comes into contact with bacteria. Usually, the enamel coating the teeth prevents this from happening. But poor oral hygiene and a diet high in sugar could lead to plaque buildup, which weakens and erodes the enamel. An injury, such as a chipped, cracked, or worn-down tooth, could also expose the dentin. Unless treated, a cavity could cause tooth sensitivity, toothaches, and over time, an increased risk of a dental infection. Treatment prevents further pain and tooth loss!
The most common material used is composite resin, a blend of glass and acrylic that we shade to blend with the tooth structure, and which contains no metal. For the front teeth, we also have a metal-free option that is made from glass ionomer. Not only does this option look natural, but we can re-charge it with fluoride to provide another layer of cavity defense.
For early cases of decay, we could place a bioactive cement filling, which restores damaged structure and prevents worsening decay, and our Hydroxyapatite option not only fills the decayed portions, but helps restore mineral structures in the tooth. Finally, we have ceramir, which is a bioactive filling we active with a handheld device. Not only does it act as a filling, but supports other restorations and seals teeth undergoing root canal treatment!
The process of placing it begins with the administration of a local anesthetic, before we remove decay and clean the tooth. We may etch the surface before we place the prepared material to the tooth. Then, we shape and sculpt the tooth as we cure the restorative material under a light. In one visit, we return smiles to optimal health, function, and appearance. If you have any questions about repairing decayed teeth, or avoiding tooth decay altogether, then contact our team today.
Our team knows that treating a cavity early means avoiding infections and preserving your smile’s health and beauty. To learn more about treating restorative issues in one visit, schedule a consultation by contacting Independence Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Independence, MO, today at 816-350-0808. We also proudly serve patients who live in Blue Springs, Kansas City, and all surrounding communities.