Dental fillings franklin tn
Dental fillings are the unsung heroes of tooth decay treatment. They remove cavities, prevent further damage, and protect your smile from infection.
To place a filling, we first use local anesthesia to numb the tooth. We then clean the affected area and fill it with a durable white resin material.
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, have been used in dentistry for 150 years due to their low cost, strength, durability, and bacteriostatic properties. They consist of an alloy of mercury (Hg), silver, copper, and tin. However, research has shown that amalgam restorations leach mercury vapors, which can cause an array of health problems including neurological damage and organ damage.
Mercury can bind to endogenous proteins and change their structure, thus triggering an immune response that recognizes these altered proteins as foreign, causing the body to attack itself by creating autoantibodies. The resulting inflammation can lead to multiple disorders, such as cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
Amalgam has been shown to be a superior restorative material to resin-based composites in primary teeth and permanent teeth, with the New England Children’s Amalgam Trial showing that compomers and composites were seven times more likely to require replacement than amalgam. However, many people are concerned about the detrimental effects of mercury exposure and have chosen to have their amalgam fillings removed or replaced.
Gold Fillings
Dental fillings franklin tn restore a damaged tooth to its normal structure, function and appearance. They seal off cracks and spaces where bacteria can enter the tooth, preventing further deterioration and decay. There are several different types of tooth fillings, including silver amalgam, gold, porcelain and composite resin. Our dentists will recommend a specific type of filling material for your individual needs.
Gold fillings are durable, long-lasting and extremely resistant to wear and corrosion. They are ideal for molars and pre-molars, as they can withstand extreme chewing and grinding without wearing down. They can also withstand more pressure than other filling materials.
Gold fillings have a highly visible color in the mouth, making them less suitable for front teeth or individuals who prioritize their smile’s natural appearance. Additionally, gold fillings are more expensive than other dental filling options because of the precious metal they contain. They also require multiple appointments for preparation, impression taking, custom filling fabrication, fitting and cementing.
Ceramic Fillings
A filling is used to close off deep nooks and crannies that harbor bacteria, restoring a tooth’s full structure and function. They can also repair cracks, chips, and broken teeth. A dental filling is a painless procedure, and we ensure your comfort by injecting an anesthetic before starting. The lifespan of your dental filling will depend on where it was placed, how well you take care of it, and the type of material it’s made from.
Composite resin fillings are a safer alternative to amalgam fillings and can be tinted to match your teeth. They are comprised of a plastic and fine glass mixture, and they don’t contain mercury. These fillings can be placed in layers to build the final restoration and then hardened with a special light.
Dental amalgam was a popular choice for over 150 years due to its cost-effectiveness, durability, and ability to withstand extensive chewing pressure (especially in molars). However, recent concerns about the health effects of mercury have led many dentists to move away from this type of filling.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Unlike silver amalgam fillings, tooth-colored fillings are a safe and mercury-free alternative. They use a composite resin to match the color and translucency of existing teeth, making them virtually invisible. This material also bonds to the tooth structure, strengthening it and preventing further decay or damage. In addition, composite fillings require less removal of the tooth structure than other types of fillings, preserving more of your natural tooth.
While dental fillings franklin tn are designed to last for years, they will eventually wear down over time. To prolong the life of your fillings, practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Also, visit Paige Prather Smiles for regular checkups and cleanings to ensure that your fillings are performing optimally.
Choosing the best restorative materials for your specific needs is essential to maintaining optimal oral health. Our experienced dentists will guide you through your options to help you make the most informed decision possible. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your dental restorations in Franklin.
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