Fillings
Causes of Tooth Decay.
It is frequently discussed that sugars cause tooth decay, aka ‘cavities’. The bacteria in the mouth are fueled by these sugars and produce an acidic environment as a byproduct. It is the acidity that eventually leads to the breakdown of the tooth structure.
Tooth decay can be addressed by what is commonly known as ‘fillings’. During your appointment, the dentist will gently anesthetize, or ‘numb’, the region prior to decay removal. This allows for a comfortable environment which will minimize the discomfort that would be felt otherwise.
The material will likely be comprised of a ‘composite resins’, or ‘white’ fillings. Compared to the previously-well known ‘silver fillings’, these types of fillings allow for a more conservative drilling of the tooth. As a result, more of the natural tooth can be retained. However, in certain situations where the decay has gotten very extensive and much of the tooth structure has been lost, your dentist may recommend a crown as the better option.
Dental Crowns
Crowns, also known as ‘caps’, are recommended in situations where much of the remaining tooth structure has been lost to either decay or trauma. They typically require two appointments.
The first appointment takes longer time of the two. The dentist will numb the area and prepare the tooth for the final impression. A temporary crown will be placed prior to the end of the appointment.
The second appointment is typically much shorter than the first appointment. The temporary crown will be removed, and the tooth will be cleaned prior to the seating of the permanent crown.
Reasons for a Crown:
Broken or fractured teeth.
Fractured fillings.
Cosmetic Enhancement.
Large fillings.
Decayed teeth.
Tooth has a root canal.
Sealants
Most molars have grooves on the outer surfaces. As a result, they are more prone to trapping bacteria and developing tooth decay. In certain cases where the grooves are quite deep, the dentist may recommend the placement of sealants to prevent such decay.
We thank you for allowing us to take care of your dental needs and look forward to serving you.