Why do teeth decay?

Sugars and residual particles from the foods and beverages we consume can cling to teeth if they are not immediately brushed away, providing the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria accumulate on teeth and around the gum line, and when they are allowed to remain there, they continue to reproduce and form a sticky substance called plaque. As plaque builds up, it hardens and becomes the ideal shelter for bacteria to thrive. If this cycle is not disrupted by brushing, flossing, and professional teeth cleaning, the plaque starts to erode the hard enamel that surrounds teeth, creating holes, a.k.a. cavities, for bacteria to enter and damage teeth even further. The longer this cycle is allowed to continue, the bigger cavities become and the more damage is done. In simple terms, when tooth decay is left untreated, it can really wreak havoc on your smile.

How to Deal with Tooth Decay

A good regimen of brushing, flossing, and regular dental exams is the best way to stave off tooth decay. However, tooth decay is not always 100% avoidable, even with the most diligent dental care routine, and some patients are just more prone to it than others. Luckily, when Dr. James catches tooth decay in its early stages, he can usually stop it in its tracks with a simple Dental Filling.

What is a Dental Filling?

In general terms, a filling is a special material that is used to seal up cavities in teeth to stop decay from spreading further and restore a tooth’s shape and function. In the past, fillings were made of a dark amalgam, or mixture, of metals, which made them very visible against the white enamel of the tooth.

Luckily, amalgam is no longer used in fillings and has been replaced by a safer, more natural-looking composite resin material that blends in with the surrounding tooth enamel.

The Process

Composite fillings are a safe and simple way to treat teeth damaged by tooth decay. Here’s what you can typically expect:

1. Dr. James numbs the area so you don’t feel a thing
2. He then uses special instruments to remove decay and damage.
3. After cleaning and preparing the open space in the tooth, Dr. James fills the void with composite resin, sealing the tooth against further damage.
4. Once the composite material is cured with the aid of a special light, the filling is contoured to the shape of the tooth.
5. Next, Dr. James examines the way the filled tooth looks and works and may make small adjustments to ensure that your bite is not affected.
6. You leave Noble Oaks Dentistry with a perfectly restored tooth!

Fillings are usually done in a single appointment, and you do not feel any pain during or after the procedure. Every case is different, of course, and depending on the extent of the damage and the number of teeth involved, you may need additional treatments.

Noble Oaks has the perfect solution to treat tooth decay and restore the full function and appearance of your teeth.

Overall, composite fillings are the best option for treating minor to moderate tooth decay. They are strong and made to last quite a long time with proper brushing and flossing. For patients with dental insurance, a large percentage of the cost of fillings is typically covered, even with basic plans, which significantly reduces out-of-pocket expense. As an added benefit, the composite resin used is tooth colored. No one will even know you have a filling.