If your teeth become damaged from tooth decay, the resulting cavities may require treatment. Tooth decay occurs when the enamel of the teeth is dissolved by acids within the mouth. As the minerals within the enamel are dissolved, holes or cavities form.
Once a cavity forms, a dentist must select the best form of treatment to protect the tooth and prevent further decay. Here are a few dental applications that are used to treat dental cavities:
Dental Fillings
One of the most frequently used applications to treat a cavity is a dental filling. During the treatment process, the dentist removes the decayed material from the tooth and fills the hole with an appropriate filling material. Here are a few filling materials that may be used:
The filling material is selected based on the desired cosmetic outcome, the price, and the size and location of the cavity. Among filling materials, gold, which is quite durable, is usually the most expensive. Silver fillings are also long-lasting. However, gold and silver fillings are easily noticed on the teeth because of their metallic coloring.
Tooth-colored fillings, such as those made of porcelain and resin, are also suitable for restoring a decayed tooth. Both materials can be matched to the color of the teeth. However, porcelain is more durable than composite resin. Glass ionomer fillings last about as long as composite resin fillings. The ionomer material is sometimes preferred for children's teeth because it releases fluoride to help strengthen and protect the tooth material.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown may be used in conjunction with a dental filling application. A crown surrounds the exposed portion of a tooth to protect and fortify the tooth.
When a large cavity is present, a filling alone may not be sufficient to offer the structural support needed to restore the tooth. As a result, after the dentist places the filling, the dental professional may cover the tooth with a dental crown.
Like tooth-colored fillings, tooth-colored crowns can be matched to the color of the patient's teeth. Crowns are available in the following materials:
After a crown has been applied, the functionality and appearance of the damaged tooth should be fully restored. If a tooth-colored crown is used, the restoration may difficult to discern in the mouth.
If you have a cavity, contact the office of a dentist in your area to schedule an appointment. Check out a website like http://www.newimagedental.com for more information and assistance.
Share19 October 2017
If you are someone who hesitates to open your mouth when you smile because you are embarrassed about your teeth, you should know that there are a number of cosmetic techniques that can give you a beautiful smile you will be proud to show to the world. As a cosmetic dentist, I have seen many clients transform their lives simply by fixing their smiles. This blog is meant to encourage people to find out about the possibilities in cosmetic dentistry so they can feel good about their smiles. A beautiful, confident smile really can change your life. I would love to show you how.
