A person can have good oral hygiene, but it still won't prevent tooth decay. When a person gets a cavity, it should be treated promptly. If left untreated, it may pose a threat to the health of a tooth.
To protect the infected tooth and prevent further dental work, the tooth will require a filling after removing the decay. At Brighton Dental in Salt Lake City, Utah, we recommend white fillings to help keep the tooth's structure intact and as a means to support and strengthen the tooth.
A composite filling is a white or tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture used to fix a tooth affected by cracks, decay, fractures, etc. The decayed or impaired section of the tooth will be removed and then the remaining space filled with a composite filling. Composites can also be utilized to change the color of the teeth or reshape an impaired tooth to enhance the aesthetics of the smile.
The traditional fillings use metals or an amalgam of metals, which are easily visible in the mouth. With white or composite fillings, your restorations are colored to match the shade of the affected tooth, making them more discreet. This is especially significant when front teeth are being reinstated. Also, the composite material bonds chemically with the tooth better than metal fillings do, providing extra support to the tooth. Additionally, composites have increased flexibility as they can be used as a filling for decay and repair chipped, broken, or worn teeth.
Characteristically, less tooth structure has to be removed to accommodate composite fillings than metal fillings. In addition, metal fillings are prone to react to temperature variations in the mouth by expanding and contracting, creating small spaces between the fillings and the tooth structure. This could lead to bacterial accumulation in these spaces over time.
White fillings are usually secured in one appointment. When the tooth is numb, Dr. Carroll will remove the decay. The opened space will then be meticulously cleaned and methodically prepared before the new filling is placed. The composite is applied one layer at a time, using laser light to harden the material after each application. After the layers of fillers have been applied, it is contoured to fit the tooth. The composite filling is then polished to avoid staining and premature wear. It is not uncommon that the treated tooth becomes sensitive to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed. However, this will subside after your tooth adapts to the new filling.
Dr. Carroll at Brighton Dental in Salt Lake City, Utah, can help transform your smile. Call us today at (801) 943-2020 to schedule your appointment and learn more about white fillings.
MON - THU 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
FRI - SUN Closed
2114 Fort Union Blvd, Cottonwood Heights, Salt Lake City, UT 84121
