Cavities occur because of tooth decay, generally brought on by the buildup of plaque on your teeth. Southern Dental in Houston will treat a cavity by removing the decayed portion of the tooth and then "filling" the area in the tooth where the decayed material once lived.
Southern Dental also uses fillings to repair cracked or broken teeth and teeth that have been worn down from misuse (such as from nail-biting or tooth grinding).
Southern Dental offers fillings using many types of material, including silver amalgam, porcelain, or a composite resin. Each type has advantages and disadvantages, and your dentist will discuss the options with you.
If you have been unhappy with the older, dark materials used for fillings in your back teeth, Southern Dental can also replace them with state-of-the-art materials that will make your teeth healthier, stronger, and more attractive. Stopping tooth decay early is a key step toward good oral health. So, contact Southern Dental about a checkup for you and your family.
A tooth that is affected by decay, fractures, cracks, or other minor damage can be repaired by using a composite filling. This is done by removing the affected or decayed portion of the tooth and then filling it with a composite filling.
There are different types of materials that are available for this procedure. You can discuss with your dentist which option is best for you and your teeth. The most common type of fillings, apart from composite fillings, are silver amalgam fillings. However, composite fillings are tooth-colored, so they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth. They are also more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or more visible areas of the mouth.
Composite fillings are very durable and are able to last many years for a long-lasting beautiful smile.
Composite fillings are usually quickly placed in one appointment. The dentist will first numb the tooth and then remove the decay as needed. Then your dentist will proceed to thoroughly clean the area and carefully prepare it before placing the new filling. In some cases where the decay is closer to the nerve of the tooth, for added protection, a special medication will be applied. The composite filling will then be placed carefully, shaped, and polished to restore your tooth to its original shape.
Sensitivity to hot and cold, after a composite filling has been placed, is normal. After your tooth has gotten used to the filling the feeling, sensitivity will subside.
Your dentist will give you care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.
At Southern Dental Associates, we are dedicated to improving and restoring your smile to a beautiful, healthy condition. We are happy to provide you with the necessary information and discuss your options. Don’t hesitate to contact us!
We have six convenient locations in the Houston area: Heights, Spring Branch, Sugar Land, Willowbrook, Deerbrook and Baybrook. Find a location near you then call us to schedule an appointment today!
For all other appointment types, please call the Baybrook or Willowbrook office.
For all other appointment types, please call the Baybrook or Willowbrook office.
