Revitalize Your Smile: The Artistry of Modern Fillings
Among the many facets of maintaining dental vitality, a pivotal role is played by the restoration of teeth affected by decay, and this is where the significance of fillings comes into focus. Let’s take a look at some of the different options out there.
Composite Fillings: The Modern Solution
What are Composite Fillings? Composite fillings are a modern and aesthetically pleasing solution to restore teeth damaged by decay. These fillings provide a seamless blend, ensuring a more natural appearance.
The Process:
- Removal of Decay: Our skilled dentists delicately remove the decayed portion of the tooth.
- Cleansing: Thoroughly cleaning the affected area creates a pristine foundation.
- Composite Filling Application: The cleansed cavity is filled with a specialized composite material, sealing the tooth and preventing bacterial intrusion.
Benefits of Composite Fillings:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Mimics natural tooth color for a seamless blend.
- Durability: Offers lasting restoration for damaged teeth.
- Preventive Seal: Acts as a barrier against further decay.
Maintenance: Maintaining the longevity of your composite fillings is simple. Consistent oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, contribute to your dental restorations’ overall success and durability.
CEREC Fillings: The Future of Dental Restorations
What are CEREC Fillings? CEREC fillings, often called inlays or onlays, represent a pinnacle in dental technology. Our office utilizes CEREC technology to custom-craft these restorations, creating a perfect fit for your tooth. This innovative approach allows for same-day restorations, eliminating the need for multiple appointments and temporary fillings.
Benefits of CEREC Fillings:
- Same-Day Restorations: Enjoy the convenience of receiving your filling in just one appointment.
- Precision: Computer-aided design ensures accurate and customized fits.
- Natural Aesthetics: Ceramic material closely matches your natural tooth color for seamless integration.
Other Types of Fillings
Amalgam Fillings:
- Durable and cost-effective.
- Silver in color, making them more noticeable.
- Some consider these inferior to newer options.
Gold Fillings:
- Gold is biocompatible, meaning it is generally well-accepted by the human body and is an excellent choice for people with particular sensitivities.
- High durability and longevity.
- Aesthetically, it stands out due to its gold color.
Porcelain Fillings:
- Custom-created to match the tooth color.
- Resistant to staining, offering both aesthetics and durability.
At Birch St Dentistry, we believe in personalized care tailored to your unique dental needs. If you have questions about which filling type is best for you or need to schedule an appointment, contact our Fairmont, MN office. Your dental health is our priority, and we look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a confident, healthy smile!
Composite Fillings
Sometimes cavities can happen. A filling can help restore a tooth damaged by decay back to a more normal function and shape. If you have a tooth that requires a filling, we will first remove the decayed leather-like, soft, decayed portion of the tooth, smooth the affected area and then fill the cleansed cavity with a filling material. This composite material seals the tooth so bacteria cannot enter and cause more decay. It is important to consistently floss and brush your teeth to extend the lifespan of your filling.
OTHER OPTIONS
- Composite resins are made in many shades of color of your natural teeth, creating a more natural appearance. While white fillings may be less noticeable than other materials, they usually only last between 3 and 10 years. They may not be ideal for large fillings as they may chip or wear over time. They can also become stained from coffee, tea, or tobacco.
- CEREC fillings are called inlays or onlays and are custom-made in our office using CEREC technology, then bonded to the tooth. They can be matched to the color of the tooth, resist staining, and have a cost midway between fillings and crowns. A porcelain restoration generally covers most of the tooth, making the filling nearly undetectable.
- If decay or a fracture has damaged a large portion of the tooth, a crown, or cap, may be recommended. Decay that has reached the nerve may be treated through Root Canal therapy or through a procedure called pulp capping. If you have a question about which treatment is best for you, give our office a call!
