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Treat Cavities with Tooth-Colored Composite Dental Fillings

You may be slightly disappointed when your dentist says you need a dental filling to treat your cavity. However, a dental filling isn’t meant to punish or make you feel guilty about having a cavity. In contrast, it’s a way to preserve your tooth by preventing the cavity from spreading deeper.

Have you seen signs of cavities in your pearly whites? It would be best if you visited Dr. Chitra Pradeep to stop the decay. Delaying treatment leads to pain and costs you a tooth down the road! At Aqua Dental, we use tooth-colored (composite) fillings to treat cavities while preserving the natural esthetics of your teeth.

The Dental Filling Procedure

At Aqua Dental, we place composite fillings in a single appointment. First, we numb your gums around the treatment area to prevent pain during treatment. Next, we drill out a small portion of the decayed part and fill the space with composite resin. We then harden the composite resin using a curing light. Before you leave, we shape your filling until the bite feels normal. Finally, we polish your treated tooth to mimic the surrounding teeth.

Benefits of Composite Dental Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings are taking over the cavity filling field for several reasons. Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings are:

  • Esthetically appealing: Once your teeth are restored with composite fillings, no one can tell you ever had tooth decay. The restoration is natural, unlike silver-colored fillings that stand out in your mouth when smiling, eating, and speaking.
  • Safe: Composite fillings have no safety concerns. They neither change in size as temperatures change nor do they leak mercury vapors into your bloodstream.
  • Conservative: We preserve much of your tooth when treating it with a composite filling.

Give Cavities the Boot in Austin, Texas

Want a cavity-free smile in Austin, Texas? Please dial (512) 643-6571 to book an appointment with Aqua Dental for natural-looking dental fillings. Don’t be bothered with cavities when they are easy to treat in our dental office.

FAQs

Are dental fillings only for cavities?

No, dental fillings can address various issues beyond cavities. While they are primarily used to repair teeth damaged by decay, they can also restore cracked, chipped, or worn-down teeth. Fillings are often used as part of cosmetic or restorative procedures, such as repairing minor fractures or gaps in teeth. Sometimes, they’re even used to improve bite alignment by reshaping the tooth surface. Dr. Pradeep can recommend fillings as a versatile solution to enhance your teeth’ functionality and appearance.

How do I know if I need a filling replaced?

Fillings don’t last forever and may need replacement due to wear and tear. Signs that a filling needs replacing include sensitivity to hot or cold, discomfort while chewing, visible cracks or gaps, or discoloration around the filling. Older fillings, especially amalgam ones, can weaken over time and risk tooth fractures. Regular dental check-ups allow Dr. Pradeep to assess the condition of your fillings and replace them before they cause further damage to the tooth.

Why are white fillings a better choice?

White fillings from composite resin offer several advantages over traditional metal fillings. They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible. Composite fillings bond directly to the tooth, strengthening and preserving a more natural structure. Unlike amalgam fillings, they are mercury-free and less likely to expand or contract with temperature changes, reducing the risk of cracks. Dr. Pradeep uses white fillings to provide a safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for restoring teeth.

Do dental fillings require special care?

Maintaining dental fillings is comparable to keeping your natural teeth. To preserve the integrity of your fillings, you must brush, floss, and have regular dental exams. Do not bite down on hard foods or objects to prevent damaging your tooth or filling. If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard could be suggested to avoid wear. Dr. Pradeep will offer tailored guidance to assist in maintaining the health of your teeth and prolonging the life of your fillings.

Can dental fillings prevent future decay?

While fillings repair existing damage, they can also help prevent further decay in the treated tooth. Modern composite fillings create a tight seal that blocks bacteria and food particles from entering the repaired area. However, untreated decay in other parts of the tooth or surrounding teeth can still occur. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and attending regular dental exams with Dr. Pradeep is critical. Early detection and proper care can help reduce the need for additional fillings in the future.

Are there alternatives to traditional fillings?

Yes, alternatives to traditional fillings may be suitable depending on the severity of the tooth damage. Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that fit into the damaged area of the tooth, offering a stronger and more durable option. For extensive decay or damage, a crown might be necessary to restore the tooth’s structure fully. Additionally, minimally invasive treatments like sealants can protect at-risk teeth before cavities form. Dr. Pradeep will assess your dental condition and discuss alternative options tailored to your needs.