By the time most Americans reach the age of 65 they have suffered from a cavity. In fact, according to one study, 96 percent of Americans have had at least one cavity by the time they reach that age. Regardless of how well you take care of your teeth, you may still get cavities. Tooth decay is caused by harmful oral bacteria that feed on left over sugars, starches, and food debris in your mouth, and release a harmful acid that eats away at your tooth structure. These bacterial naturally live in your mouth so they are always there. We brush our teeth to remove plaque which consists of the bacteria, sugar, food, and saliva. If plaque is not removed in a timely manner (under 24 hours) it will harden into tartar which can no longer be removed simply by brushing.
What’s Your Choice?
Since most everybody gets cavities which require dental fillings, which filling would you choose? Silver amalgam fillings are a mixture of metals which are held together with mercury. They have been the go-to filling for decades. The problem with silver fillings is that they are silver and very noticeable; they contain mercury; and they expand and contract which can lead to cracks, fractures, or breakage.
Tooth-colored composite fillings blend in with your teeth. They are also bonded to the inside of your tooth so they reinforce your tooth structure, rather than weaken it. They do not expand or contract with hot and cold temperatures, and they do not contain mercury.
Anterior vs Posterior
Composite resin fillings are generally the treatment of choice for anterior teeth. However, for molars, if you are a bruxer (meaning you grind and clench your teeth), a metal filling may be more appropriate. Gold fillings are the strongest and can be used for those who brux.
Do You Need A Dental Filling?
If you’re having tooth pain or sensitivity, you may need a dental filling. If so, let us help you! Schedule an appointment with Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury in Shrewsbury, MA, today by calling (508) 842-8838. We proudly serve patients from Worcester, North and South Grafton, Westborough, Southborough, Northborough, Boylston, Hopkinton, Millbury, and all surrounding communities.
