When most patients think of having a dental filling, they groan—thinking that the process will be inconvenient and possibly result in less than stellar looking results. When a patient has a cavity, however, it’s imperative that the decay be promptly treated, sterilized, and the tooth then be sealed with a filling to prevent further irritation. Luckily, this process is easier and more aesthetically successful than ever before. Patients no longer have to dread having a simple filling—with sedation techniques and modern composite fillings you can achieve stunning results without the anxiety or hassle.
In the past dental fillings were commonly made of silver—amalgam fillings—with some mercury. This material was somewhat effective at sealing the tooth, however, it gave enamel a dark, grayish, metallic look. Consequently, some patients found that their teeth looked darker and dingier than they liked.
Additionally, many patients did not like the idea of having a substance with mercury in their mouths. As amalgam fillings grew older they could crack or chip, and leak into the existing tooth structure. The expansion and contraction of these fillings could also cause structural damage to the teeth.
However, modern innovations
in dentistry have changed the way that we treat cavities and place fillings.
Our Longmont general dentist can now place natural-looking composite dental
fillings. These fillings can be shaded to blend with your natural teeth and
enhance your smile. They are also mercury-free and aesthetically pleasing. Many
patients contend that they cannot tell the difference between their natural
enamel and their filling!
Dental fillings are a
necessity for patients with dental decay who require cavity extraction.
Fillings allow your tooth to remain functional—the filling helps guard your
tooth against further irritation and infection. Composite fillings require
little filling away of healthy tooth structure, and they form a strong bond
with natural enamel, increasing the efficacy of treatment.
Don’t avoid important
dental treatment because you are afraid of having a filling or you don’t want
your teeth to look dark or metallic. Both of these fears are firmly in the past
thanks to modern composite fillings! Talk to a Longmont general dentist about
using cutting-edge sedation treatment with composite fillings to keep you
smiling for years. Give us a call if you have any questions—(303) 776-4229.