Fillings
A dental filling is a restorative procedure that repairs teeth damaged by decay, chipping or wearing of tooth structure or exposure of root surface.
Tooth decay, caries, or cavities are quickly found during a routine dental appointment. Once detected, your dentist will remove the decayed material, clean the affected area, then fill the cavity with a composite resin or an amalgam filling. The filling materials close off access to bacteria and prevent further decay.
Amalgam
The "silver" filling is an alloy typically composed of mercury, silver, tin and copper along with other metallic elements.
Resin/Composite
The "tooth colored" filling is made up of resin and quartz particles.
Bonding
The use of resin material to protect and repair enamel loss or root exposure do to gum recession.
Preventing Dental Decay
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss or use an interdental cleaner once a day
- Ask your dentist about dental sealants
- Limit sugary and sports drinks
- Choose nutritious, sugar-free snacks
- Visit your dentist regularly
- Eat a balanced diet
- Ask your dentist about supplemental fluoride treatment