5-plus benefits of tooth-colored fillings in Clearwater and Seminole, FL
When you need to rebuild a portion of your tooth or the entire thing, you expect that tooth to look like your natural tooth before it sustained decay or injury. Yet, for more than a century, dentists have generally placed materials and restorations that do not look like the rest of the tooth or surrounding teeth. We at Boulevard Dental in Clearwater and Seminole, FL are advocates of “biomimetic dentistry,” which is a fancy way of saying that we rebuild teeth to best “mimic” the biology and structure of the tooth that developed with you naturally. Tooth-colored fillings and other dental restorations are indistinguishable in “form” (looks) from healthy natural teeth. And that is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to benefits.
General Dentistry
Fact or myth? If you have a cavity, you will know it. Myth, Mild tooth decay has no symptoms. Sensitivity begins to occur when the tooth decay is already causing damage to the nerve. Today’s dentistry prevents tooth decay with sealants and other conservative methods. Fact or myth? Sugar is the prime cause of cavities. A fact and also a myth. Acid is the main trigger in producing the bacteria that causes cavities. The bacteria is then fueled by the consumption of carbohydrates. Sugar is a trigger in cavities, but carbs as a whole are the main cause. Fact or myth? Cavities are the prime reason for root canals. Myth. Root canals are a result of nerve damage. And untreated cavity could lead to nerve damage, but root canals are on set by number of different factors. Facts on myth? Brushing and flossing are the best way to prevent cavities. Fact. Fact or myth? Expensive toothpastes are always better than cheaper ones. Myth. Different toothpastes are better for different teeth in situations. Sometimes moderately priced toothpaste can be more effective. Ask the dentist about what might be best for your teeth. And always look for the ADA seal of approval. Fact or myth? If a tooth is white, it must be healthy. Myth. Under the surface there may be cavities, problems with the root or other abnormalities. Fact or Myth? Teeth whitening is harmful because it damages enamel. Myth. There are many modern teeth whitening processes that have minimal harmful effects. Teeth whitening isn’t for every mouth or person though. Consult the dentist before you proceed with whitening treatments. Fact or myth? Dentists should be feared. Myth. With today’s advancements in technology and safety practices there is nothing to worry about. Procedures are as quick and painless as ever. Fact or myth? You should visit your dentists at least twice a year. FACT.
Correct with composite
Composite resin is a dental material that is used for cosmetic treatments and for restorative procedures, such as fillings. The material can be perfectly color-matched to the surrounding teeth, and prepared to be durable and withstand the forces from behaviors such as grinding down food. Generally, when the composite is applied to the front surfaces of the teeth for cosmetic repairs, the treatment is called “dental bonding.” When composite is applied to repair damaged tooth surfaces as a restorative treatment, the procedure or restoration is referred to as a “filling,” “inlay,” or “onlay” (partial crown).
Depending on your needs, composite resin may be shaped to cover up chips, cracks, gaps between teeth, and irregularly-shaped and irregularly-sized teeth. Dental bonding is not an appropriate procedure if the condition you wish to correct threatens the structural integrity and health of the tooth; for instance, if a chip or crack is modest, it may be repaired with dental bonding. However, if the crack is larger and indicative of more significant damage, restorative treatment will be necessary.
A simple filling may sufficiently support the tooth. If a large filling is necessary, we may recommend another restorative treatment (such as an inlay, partial crown, or full-coverage crown) to ensure the tooth retains its strength over the long haul. When applied as a filling, patients of Drs Wujick, Moss, Kopakin and Castillo appreciate that the composite approach is:
- Conservative, preserves maximum natural tooth structure
- Well-tolerated; produces little to no discomfort
- Requires little to no anesthetic (see above)
- Safe and tissue-friendly, so low risk of adverse reactions and rejection
- Fast and can be completed in a single visit Tooth-colored fillings are also an exceptional value.
As maximum natural tooth structure is preserved, and quality materials and bonding agents are used, treated teeth remain healthy and strong for years to come with good oral hygiene and regular visits to our offices in Clearwater and Seminole.
