Did you know that metal fillings are not the only option available to treat your cavities? In fact, we have a metal-free material that can be tinted to blend with the tooth, matching the rest of your smile. In today’s blog, your Livonia, MI, dentist explains when you should seek treatment, and how our fillings look so natural.
Creating a Tooth-Colored Filling
Instead of using metal, which could be problematic for very young patients, the elderly, or pregnant women, we opt for a metal-free option. Composite resin is a durable blend of glass and acrylic, one that we tint to match the color of surrounding tooth structure. Each one is custom-made to ensure a proper fit, good bite balance, and of course, a long-lasting and successful solution to tooth decay.
When to Seek Treatment for Cavities
If you begin to notice tooth sensitivity or toothaches, then let us know right away. While an ache that only lasts for a brief period could be related to cold air or sinus/allergy issues, pain that persists for more than a day could mean cavities. Once the decay is severe enough to cause discomfort, the risk of an infection has increased significantly, and you should see us right away. However, if you attend checkup and cleaning visits every six months then we will have an opportunity to identify the earliest stages of tooth decay, before you ever feel discomfort, and treat them quickly.
Placing Your Restoration
We first start with an exam to identify a cavity. If we discover tooth decay, then we will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area. If you have anxiety, we could also discuss dental sedation to help you remain calm and conscious, with little to no more memory of the procedure afterward.
We then remove any decay and clean the tooth. We may gently etch the surface before placing the filling material in several layers. As the composite resin cures under a light, we will shape and mold the tooth. The final step involves polishing the tooth to ensure a more attractive appearance. If you have more severe cases of tooth decay, we also have partial and full crowns to offer a lifelike repair and protect your smile from infection or tooth loss. To help prevent cavities, be sure you brush and floss daily, cut back on sugary foods and drinks, and see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning too. If you have any questions, then contact our team today.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY?
Our team is ready to offer a lifelike solution for cavities with our dental fillings. For more information our restorative treatment options, then call the office of James Stewart, DDS in Livonia, MI, today at (734) 425-4400.