We put a lot of effort into keeping our teeth cavity-free, brushing 2-3 times per day and flossing often as well. However, have you ever wondered about the extent to which a cavity threatens your oral health? If you have, you’ll find the answer to this question and others below as your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, responds to your most frequently asked questions about dental fillings?
Why are dental fillings so important?
Dental fillings are important because they keep bacteria from doing any more damage to teeth than they have already done. Bacteria consume sugar in the mouth and give off an acid byproduct that damages teeth. When the damage compounds, they begin to burrow inside of a tooth, creating a cavity. However, a cavity is not the worst damage they can cause. If a cavity is not filled, the bacteria can burrow deeper inside of the tooth, accessing its pulp. When bacteria reach a tooth’s pulp, they can infect it, putting the life of the tooth in peril. If root canal treatment is not performed at this stage, the tooth is likely to die and fall out.
What are white dental fillings?
White dental fillings achieve the same end result as traditional silver fillings. They simply use a different material. The material used in white fillings is a composite resin, the same substance used in dental bonding. Composite resin is tooth-colored, making for a better cosmetic result, and it is durable and less prone to leaking.
Are dental fillings important even in baby teeth?
Absolutely. If a baby tooth develops a cavity, it should be filled. If the filling is neglected, the tooth can fall out prematurely, leaving a gap where nearby teeth may grow, causing future orthodontic problems.
Schedule a Visit with Your Grand Prairie Dentist
Do you have any more questions about dental fillings? Do you have a tooth that has succumbed to tooth decay? If so, contact our 75052 dental office today by calling 972-262-5111 to schedule an appointment or a consultation with your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Smith. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington, South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.
