When plaque damages the enamel that protects the outer surface of the teeth, it leads to a tooth disease known as tooth decay or cavities. It is important to have your cavities treated by a qualified Dentist in San Bernardino to prevent them from progressing and affecting the delicate nerves and tissues deep within your teeth. A cavity can be treated by removing the decayed tissue and placing a dental filling. Before your cavity is removed, a dentist will apply a local anesthetic to numb the surrounding tissue. Your dentist will then remove the decayed part using a dental drill. You can also get rid of cavities through laser therapy or air abrasion. Currently, there are many dental filling options that your dentist can help you choose from. These include:
- Composite fillings: This is a tooth-colored material that is made of glass or quartz and resin. These fillings are more natural looking and durable than amalgam filling. However, they may become stained over time.
- Amalgam: This filling is a resilient combination of elemental metals, including silver, tin, copper and mercury. Although these fillings are still widely used, they are appropriate for use in more visible teeth, especially those that are near the front of the mouth. Also, they may not be safe because of mercury content that might cause neurological problems, especially among infants and children.
- Custom-made dental restoration: These are made in a laboratory from a special mold of your tooth. The fillings include a custom made inlay that fills the removed portion of your teeth together with a crown that covers the top and sides of your tooth. Custom made restoration are subsequently placed, which are made from porcelain, gold, metal alloys and composite materials.
- Glass ionomer: These are tooth-colored fillings made of acrylic and glass. They are designed to release fluoride that protects your teeth from further decay.
- Resin ionomer: These are made from acrylic and glass filler and are used to fill cavities between teeth or on the root surfaces.
If you are suffering from tooth decay, it is essential to talk to your Dentist in San Bernardino about your filling options, their benefits and side effects. West Covina Family Dentistry will help you evaluate your options and your overall oral health to determine which type of filling is best for you
