While metal fillings are still prescribed, that doesn’t mean that you only have one option for cavity treatment. With our composite resin restorations, we have a tooth-colored option to restore smiles to full function and beauty. In today’s blog, your Baxter, MN, dentist will explain how we create fillings that look natural.
The Time to Receive a Filling
A dental filling treats cavities to restore function and health to your tooth, and to also prevent complications like painful infections or abscesses, complications that could mean tooth loss unless prevented or addressed quickly! A cavity forms when the outer enamel is compromised, enabling bacteria to reach the dentin and causing a cavity. As the decay grows and spreads, eventually reaching the pulp, your tooth begins to hurt, leading to sensitive teeth and toothaches. If you encounter pain in your tooth, please let us know right away. The causes of the compromised enamel could include injuries that crack or chip a tooth, or poor oral hygiene that wears down and erodes this protective layer with time.
Using Composite Resin
Composite resin is a blend of glass and acrylic that is completely metal-free. We then tint the material to ensure the restoration blends with the rest of your tooth. The treatment process starts with our team administering a local anesthesia before we remove the decay from the tooth. Next, we clean the area and gently etch it. The filling material is applied in several layers, and then cured under a special light. Finally, we polish the area to ensure a more lifelike appearance. The entire process only takes one visit to complete, so you leave with relief from your discomfort, and a healthier tooth.
Preventing Cavities
Following treatment, you may wonder what can be done to avoid the onset of a cavity. Well, start by limiting the buildup of plaque and tartar. Plaque and tartar (calcified plaque) will weaken and erode the outer enamel, and to prevent the buildup you need to remove food particles from on and between your teeth by thoroughly brushing and flossing each day. You also help by cutting back on the sugary foods and drinks that leave behind particles for bacteria to consume. Finally, be sure you see us at least once every six months for a checkup and cleaning, so we can keep an eye out for demineralization and weakened enamel, and also remove all buildup with a dental cleaning. If you have any questions, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Restorative Dentistry?
Contact Greenhaven Family Dental in Baxter, MN today by calling (218) 454-0523 to learn more about our lifelike and durable dental restorations. We want to help you and your family start a new year with a stronger smile, one free of toothaches and cavities.