While effective, many people find themselves a little nervous about metal fillings. After all, they don’t blend with the smile very well, or at all actually. However, we offer our Brighton, MA, patients an attractive and long-lasting solution that doesn’t require metal at all. Let’s learn more about our composite resin dental fillings!
When Does A Smile Need a Filling?
A filling is a dental restoration our team employs to treat tooth decay. A cavity forms in the dentin, a porous, sensitive structure that surrounds the inner pulp and is protected by the outer layer of enamel. However, if poor oral hygiene weakens enamel, or a chip or crack damages it, then bacteria can reach the dentin and cause a cavity to form. Without treatment, the decay will continue to grow and spread throughout the tooth, eventually reaching the inner pulp and causing a painful infection to arise, one that could threaten the very stability of the tooth. If you begin to experience tooth sensitivity and toothaches, then you may have tooth decay that needs attention.
Composite Resin vs. Amalgam
Metal fillings are effective, but when possible, we prefer to offer our patients a more lifelike option. Instead of using metal, we use composite resin, a blend of glass and acrylic compounds that can be shaded to match the color of surrounding tooth structure. If we find you have a cavity, then we will remove the decay for the tooth and thoroughly clean it. Next, we prepare and place the composite resin material, shaping the tooth as it cures under a light. Finally, we polish the tooth to create a more lifelike appearance. In a single visit, we can treat a cavity and prevent the issue from growing worse or leading to a dental infection.
Understanding Tooth Decay
How does a cavity form? Understanding your cavities means you can take steps to help prevent them. A cavity forms when particles from our foods and drinks remain on or between the teeth, to be broken down by bacteria. The teeth become coated in plaque, which weakens outer enamel and leads to cavities. However, by brushing and flossing daily, having your teeth examined and cleaned every six months, and cutting back on sugary foods and drinks, we can help safeguard our smiles against the risk of cavities. If you have any questions about our restorations, or about avoiding cavities, then contact our team today.