Any bacteria that linger in your mouth will consume traces of sugars and carbohydrates. When they do, they produce an acid byproduct that is capable of wearing down tooth enamel. With less enamel, a tooth’s defenses are compromised, and it can eventually succumb to tooth decay. The result of such tooth decay may be a cavity. In order to prevent a cavity from worsening, it must be filled, and today that means a choice between two fillings commonly referred to as silver fillings and white fillings. Your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, differentiates between the two and discusses the process of filling teeth.
White Fillings vs. Silver Fillings
Your Grand Prairiedentist, Dr. Smith, offers both white fillings and silver fillings to restore damaged teeth. Both types of fillings are effective, but there are a few differences worth noting between the two. White fillings are made of a tooth-colored composite resin. They offer nice cosmetic results that keep a filled tooth from standing out next to unfilled teeth. Silver fillings, also called amalgam fillings, are made up of a combination of different types of metals. Included in these metals is a bit of mercury that aids in making the metals malleable so that they can be shaped. However, the presence of mercury makes an amalgam filling a bad option for children, pregnant women, and anyone who is sensitive to mercury.
Filling a Tooth
When filling a tooth, Dr. Smith will first administer a sedative. He may also use nitrous oxide. Next, he will scrape away and remove any decayed material from the tooth before placing the filing material, either the resin or the amalgam into the cavity. Next, he will dry the filling material and take an impression of the filled tooth to look for any rough edges. Lastly, he will smooth and polish the filling.
Schedule a Visit with Your Grand Prairie Dentist
If you have a cavity, a white filling can restore your tooth and yield fantastic cosmetic results. Schedule an appointment with your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Smith, today by calling 972-262-5111. Our 75052 dental office welcomes patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.
