Have you been putting off a restoration out of worry that it will stand out in your smile? In the past, fillings may have been done with amalgam or gold that starkly contrasted with your pearly whites. However, your Auburn Hills, MI, dentist offers biocompatible fillings that repair your tooth after a cavity and look natural. In today’s blog, we will be discussing the uses and benefits of this material.
Why We Fill Cavities
A cavity is a hole that is created in your tooth. Decay occurs when food particles turn into plaque, which can deteriorate your enamel. Your enamel cannot be replaced, but the area can be repaired by removing the damaged part and filling the area with safe material.
While cavities can be treated, it is important to prevent them when possible. At home, you should brush and floss twice a day, or after every meal if possible. If you frequently snack, try to rinse your mouth or drink water between snacks to wash out food particles. Along with these preventive measures, you should see the dentist twice a year for a cleaning and examination. During your cleaning, hardened plaque can be removed using special tools. X-rays may also be done to detect problems such as misalignment, periodontal disease, and of course decay.
Comparing Composite Resin To Other Materials
In our office, we use composite resin to fill the space left from cavities. This material is durable, matches the color of your tooth, and can be easily bonded to many different areas. It is also a safe material that can last for many years.
Other materials that may be used for your restoration could include amalgam, gold, or ceramic. Amalgam is silver in color and stands out against your smile. This may be used in other offices to treat decay on the back molars. While this is a sturdy material, it can change shape with temperature changes, which can cause discomfort. Gold is another option, but these can be costly and do not blend in with the appearance of your smile.
Do You Have To Get A Cavity Filled?
If you ignore tooth decay, it could continue to deteriorate and enter deeper layers of your tooth. Depending on the severity of this, you may need to have root canal treatment to restore the area, or the entire tooth may be removed if it is severely damaged. If root canal treatment is done, the dentist will remove the decayed pulp and fill the area with a rubbery material. This can help alleviate discomfort that may occur with severe decay.
Don’t Let Decay Worsen
If you have a cavity, schedule a restoration today. You can call Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI, at (248) 852-1820 to book a filling.
