Have you begun experiencing sensitivity when you try to enjoy a perfectly hot cup of coffee in the mornings, or an iced cold glass of tea on a sunny afternoon? Do you pass up dessert, now, for fear of the discomfort it will cause? Have you been troubled by the appearance of grey lines or white patches forming on the surface on one or even several of your teeth? If so, you could be struggling with a dental cavity. Cavities are the most common dental problem, by far, and they can pose serious risks such as infection or eventually the need for an extraction. Fortunately these extensive measures can generally be avoided, by simply seeking prompt restorative treatment if you suspect you could have a cavity.
How a Filling Could Be The Answer
In many cases, particularly if the cavity is diagnosed quickly, a simple dental filling can help to protect the tooth, prevent infection, and restore the overall health of the smile. While dental fillings were once made primarily of metal amalgam, modern fillings are frequently made of a tooth-colored composite resin material instead.
Resin provides a number of benefits, when compared to metal fillings. For instance:
- Composite resin bonds well with teeth, creating an incredibly tight seal. This helps to prevent further acidic erosion. It also helps avoid infections, which can be caused when bacteria is able to enter the interior of the tooth.
- Resin can also be made to closely match natural teeth, in their shape, size and even contouring. In fact, it is so natural-looking, many dentists offer a cosmetic treatment for enhancing smiles that utilizes the same composite resin material.
- Unlike metal, resin has a low conductivity level, which allows it to serve as a more comfortable restoration for most people. It’s also safe for people with metal allergies.
