Tooth Fillings that Meet Every Need
Tooth fillings are common, and are used to treat teeth that have been afflicted by cavities (small holes). The hole formed by tooth decay can leave a tooth structurally weak even after the decay and bacteria have been cleaned out. Placing a filling inside of it helps restore the tooth’s strength so that it can withstand the pressure of your bite without cracking or breaking. The filling also seals the tooth to prevent oral bacteria from re-entering and re-infecting its interior. If your tooth requires a large filling, then Dr. Roberts might recommend placing a dental crown over it, as well, for additional protection.
Metal Fillings
Dental amalgam is a mixture of malleable metals that can be applied as a liquid, and conforms to the shape of a tooth’s cavity. The amalgam’s durability makes it one of the strongest tooth filling materials, and is often recommended for back molars that bear the most pressure from your bite. If you are pregnant, are allergic to metal, or have other medical considerations, then Dr. Roberts may recommend a tooth-colored resin or ceramic filling, instead.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings can be made from different materials, usually porcelain or a tooth-colored composite resin. Unlike metal amalgam, the materials blend in with the tooth’s appearance for a more discreet and cosmetically pleasing restoration. Though not as strong as metal, both ceramic and composite resin are durable enough to withstand normal bite pressure, and are often excellent choices for teeth that are more visible, including front teeth and incisors.
Find a Filling that’s Right for You
Cavities are most successfully treated with a fillings that are designed specifically for each patients unique needs. To find out which filling is right for you, call our dental office in Baxter, MN, today at (218) 454-0523. Our office proudly serves the residents of Baxter, as well as Brainerd, Little Falls, Staples, Crosby-Ironton-Deerwood, and all surrounding communities.