Dental Fillings
Thanks to new technology and advances in adhesive dentistry, patients have better options. Natural-looking, tooth-colored fillings called resin composite provide an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional, silver-colored, amalgam ones. These new resin fillings offer more than cosmetic advantages. They are also metal and mercury-free, making them perfect for patients with metal sensitivities, allergies, or health concerns. These restorations are both natural-looking and safe. They are also stronger and healthier for your teeth and gums. Due to the durability of resin composites, they are also available with minimal lost tooth structure
How a Dentist Determines it's Time for a Filling:
- Visual exam: If your teeth are discolored or have obvious problems, our dentist may be able to find cavities simply by looking at your teeth. But if further inspection is needed, a metal tool called an explorer may be used. An explorer will expose decaying enamel by sticking in it.
- Decay dye: Once rinsed over your teeth, the dye will adhere to decayed tooth surfaces and stay away from non-decayed areas.
- X-rays: X-rays are a popular way of detecting decay and may help our dentist see cavities that can’t be observed through other methods.
A dental filling may last many years, but you should stay on the lookout for signs that the filling has deteriorated. Call our office if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Cracks or chips appear
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pain when you bite down
- The filling falls out
