SINCE THEY BOND TO THE TOOTH, COSMETIC FILLINGS RESTORE MOST OF THE ORIGINAL STRENGTH OF THE TOOTH.
Silver weakens the teeth, making them more susceptible to breaking. Since broken teeth can be more expensive to restore, composites can save a lot of expense over the long run.
Here are some advantages of white fillings:
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Cosmetic fillings restore the natural appearance of the tooth.
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Teeth restored with white fillings are less sensitive to hot and cold than teeth restored with amalgam, if correct techniques are used.
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Composites are mercury-free. Mercury in the fillings is viewed by some as being toxic.
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Composites require less removal of tooth structure. Especially with new cavities, the size of the hole made for the filling can be dramatically smaller with composites.
QUESTIONS ABOUT FILLINGS IN THE WOODLANDS
WHAT IS A COMPOSITE FILLING?
There are amalgam fillings and composite fillings. Amalgam fillings (see image above) do not blend in with the rest of your teeth, while composite fillings blend in with the rest of your teeth.
A composite filling is a procedure where a white composite filling is used to treat a tooth that has decayed. The composite material is inserted into the tooth, preventing decay from spreading further. This treatment is very beneficial because it prevents the decay from spreading to the root of the tooth, saving the patient from more complicated and painful procedures.
HOW IS A COMPOSITE FILLING PERFORMED?
First, we numb the affected area and the dentist drills a small hole in the affected area of your tooth. We ensure that all the decay has been removed. Then, the space is cleaned of bacteria and debris and is packed with the filling. Finally, we polish the filling to ensure the area is clean with a natural white look that fits in with the rest of your teeth.
DO I NEED A FILLING?
If you have a cavity, then you will want to use a filling to prevent further damage. Filling a cavity can prevent further treatments, such as root canals. Fillings may also be used to fix minor to moderate chips and cracks in your teeth. If you experience pain in your tooth or think you may require a filling, call Carrie Muzny D.D.S. and one of our dentists will examine the condition of your teeth and provide the appropriate treatment.
DOES A FILLING HURT?
Patients are numbed before their filling procedure. This helps prevent pain or discomfort during the procedure. For very minor cavities, it is possible to fill a cavity without the need for being numbed.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO FILL A CAVITY?
Filling a cavity can be a quick procedure. If you only require one cavity to be filled, then it may be completed in around 30 minutes. If you require multiple fillings, then the process will take longer and your appointment may be broken up into multiple visits for your convenience.
GIVE US A CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR A FILLING
If you require a filling or think you require one, then give us a call. We'll schedule your appointment and determine if a filling is required. Our team is happy to answer any questions you may have. If you need directions to our location or want to know our hours, then visit our contact page to learn more.