What Is My Best Option For Treating Cavities?

Despite the availability of quality dental care products, cavities are still a common occurrence today. Fortunately, cavities can be effectively treated with dental fillings. Tooth-colored composite fillings are suitable for treating cavities and preserving your teeth. 

At Distinctive Dentistry, Eugene, Oregon, Drs. Robert Gemmell and Ty Jaros offer prompt and effective cavity treatments using composite fillings.

Amalgam vs. Composite Fillings: Is There a Difference?

Amalgam and composite resin are the two most common fillings used for cavity treatment. Here are some of the main differences between the two:

Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

• Amalgam fillings are composed of liquid mercury and a powdered alloy composed of silver, tin, and copper. Those who have metal sensitivities or allergies may potentially have a reaction to Amalgam fillings.
• When used on front teeth, amalgam fillings can be easily seen when you smile, laugh or eat.
• Amalgam fillings expand and contract when exposed to temperature changes in your mouth. Over time, as an amalgam filling expands and contracts, it could lead to cracking or fracturing of the tooth. This expansion and contraction could also create a higher risk for food particles to seep under the filling and cause future recurrent cavities.
• Amalgam fillings require more of the tooth structure to be removed prior to placing the filling. This can weaken your tooth and make it more susceptible to breakage.

Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings

• Composite fillings are made from a non-metal composite resin material that is a healthier and safer option and isn’t impacted by temperature changes.
• Tooth-colored composite fillings blend in with your natural teeth, making them more discreet.
• Composite fillings require less drilling for treating a cavity. The filling bonds quickly to your tooth, helping to protect it from future cavities. Our dentists use a special light to cure and harden the filling.
• Treating cavities with composite fillings minimizes tooth sensitivity as the resin insulates the tooth to protect it from extreme hot or cold temperature changes.
• Composite fillings can be repaired. If your filling suffers wear and tear from chewing or grinding your teeth or is damaged, our dentists can evaluate the area and repair it.

Importance of Treating Cavities Quickly

Through routine dental exams, Drs. Robert Gemmell and Ty Jaros can detect signs of cavities early on before they cause extensive damage to your teeth. Delaying your treatment will only worsen cavities or allow them spread to adjacent teeth. Severe cavities could lead to the loss of one or more teeth.

Don’t let cavities ruin your smile or life by causing irreparable damage to your teeth. Contact Distinctive Dentistry in Eugene, Oregon, at (541) 255-1287 to schedule an appointment for cavity treatment.

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