White Fillings
Natural White Fillings
When tooth decay becomes a problem, it needs to be handled the right away. Decay that starts as a simple cavity moves quickly through your teeth and into your gums. This can cause periodontal disease that then moves into your bloodstream, which transitions the bacteria into other parts of your body.
Bacteria increases your risk of developing heart disease, certain forms of cancer, and even stroke. It’s important you never let a cavity get to this point, which is why you need to call your dentist as soon as possible. If you have a cavity and decay, your dentist can diagnose it, remove it, and fill it using white, natural fillings.
What is a White Filling?
A white filling is no different than a traditional filling in that it is used to help with the preservation of your teeth. It’s a composite filling that is designed with glass and resin, and it’s the same color as your natural teeth. These are preferable to traditional amalgam fillings, which are the silver fillings that were commonly used in previous years. Amalgam fillings contain mercury, which is a toxin. White fillings contain no harmful chemicals, and they are more natural-looking than silver fillings.
When you get a white filling, your dentist goes into your mouth and removes the decay from the tooth or teeth in question. Once the decay is removed and the exposed area is thoroughly cleaned, your dentist applies the white filling to the tooth. This protects the inside of your tooth, and it also helps keep the rest of your mouth healthy. The decay can no longer spread to other teeth, and you also don’t feel any pain or damage as a result.
How Does it Work?
If your dentist decides you need a white filling, there is a process that must be followed to make sure your new filling is strong and secure. Your dentist will start by numbing the area around the affected tooth or teeth with a local anesthetic. This means you are not asleep for the process, but you are not going to feel anything other than a little poking and prodding.
Removal of Decay
Once the area around your teeth is numb, your dentist will use a laser or a drill to remove the decay from the tooth or teeth in question.
Area Testing
The area is then tested to see if all the decay has been removed, and then the area is cleaned to make room for the filling.
Liner
Your dentist may insert a liner near the gum if your root is infected near the gum. This liner is inserted to ensure the nerve is protected from the process.
Filling
The filling is placed. Once it is hardened and in place, the dentist will shape it, polish it, and finish the process.
While the process is not very complex, it is lengthy. It takes a while for the while filling to dry and harden as it is applied one layer at a time. Each layer has to harden to make room for the next layer.
At home it can be difficult to tell if you need a filling, which is why it’s so important you keep regular appointments with your dentist. Your dentist can identify and help fill cavities long before they become a major problem in your mouth.
If you suspect you might have a cavity or decay that’s advanced, contact Wilson Dental today to schedule a consultation. If you need a white filling, your dentist can discuss the process and your options with you. You may not have much time to make a decision, but you will get all your options laid out for you so that a decision can be made quickly and efficiently to protect your teeth.