Understanding Tooth-colored Fillings
Tooth decay and cavities are prevalent dental issues that can escalate if left unaddressed. Opting for tooth-colored fillings can effectively restore teeth and prevent minor decay from progressing into more severe conditions.
Despite maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, tooth decay can still penetrate tooth enamel. Thankfully, the treatment for cavities typically involves tooth fillings, a routine dental procedure. At our practice, we utilize tooth-colored composite fillings as an alternative to traditional amalgam fillings, which contain metal and mercury. Our metal-free fillings seamlessly blend with your natural tooth color, ensuring they harmonize with your smile effortlessly.
Utilizing Dental Cleanings To Prevent Cavities
The most effective approach to managing cavities is by preventing their occurrence altogether. We advocate for regular dental cleanings every six months at our office. During these appointments, our skilled hygienists meticulously remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth using specialized instruments designed to access difficult-to-reach areas often overlooked during at-home brushing and flossing routines. Additionally, based on your specific dental needs, we may suggest supplementary general dental care such as dental sealants to provide added protection against decay.
How Do Dental Fillings For Cavities Work?
When decay creates holes in teeth, cavities and tooth fillings become necessary. If left unattended, decay will persist and extend its damage to the tooth's hard structure, potentially affecting the inner pulp and root system. During the filling procedure, dentists utilize a drill to remove decay from inside the cavity. However, as this process does not repair the existing damage, a filling is essential. The purpose of the filling is to replace the portion of the tooth destroyed by decay. Your Metairie dentist will shape the filling to match the contour of the original tooth, restoring its structural integrity and safeguarding the softer enamel exposed by decay.
What Types Of Fillings Are There?
Teeth fillings can be made from various materials, including gold, porcelain, silver amalgam (a mixture of mercury with silver, tin, zinc, and copper), tooth-colored plastic, composite resin, and glass ionomer. The choice of material depends on factors such as your dentist's recommendation, the severity and location of the decay, as well as your insurance coverage.
Is Tooth Sensitivity After A Filling Normal?
Following a filling procedure, the area surrounding the affected tooth is typically numbed to minimize discomfort. It's normal not to feel any sensations for an hour or two after your appointment. However, once the numbing wears off, it's common to experience pain in your teeth and gums.
You may notice heightened sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages, and it's not uncommon to feel increased discomfort or sensitivity when brushing or flossing near the treated tooth. These sensations are typical reactions as your mouth adjusts to the restoration process.
Minimize Tooth Sensitivity
You can reduce the sensitivity in your teeth and gums by:
- Take an anti-inflammatory medication containing ibuprofen.
- Rinse your mouth with a solution of warm water mixed with 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon of salt to reduce inflammation.
- Temporarily avoid consuming hot, cold, or acidic foods and beverages.
- Brush and floss your teeth gently to avoid aggravating sensitivity.
- Consider using a desensitizing toothpaste such as Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive to help alleviate discomfort.
