Restorations
Please consult with our dentists if you suspect to have cavities as soon as possible to avoid further complications.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay or cavity occurs when plaque bacteria converts sugar into acid which damages your tooth by softening the enamel and dentin.
This damage will form hole in your tooth and if left untreated it can cause severe pain/infection and even destroy the whole tooth.
Dental Restoration
The purpose of a dental restoration is to remove the damaged tooth structure and replace it with materials that will protect the tooth and give back its shape and function. Dental restorations, also known as fillings, can consist of different materials such as amalgam, composite, ceramic or gold and in most instances, composite or amalgam fillings are generally used to repair tooth decay.
Tips to avoid cavities
Please consult with our dentists if you suspect to have cavities as soon as possible to avoid further complications.
- Avoid excessive intake of sweets and sugary drinks
- Have good oral hygiene habits (floss/brush/mouthwash twice a day)
- Routine check-ups and cleaning (every 6-9 months)
- Use fluoride toothpaste
What type of filling should I use?
The noticeable difference between amalgam and composite filling is the color aesthetic. Amalgam has a grey/metal color that darken with time and composite is a white synthetic resin which its shade can be matched to the natural color of the tooth. Composites are also often used because it is bonded to the tooth which allows more conservative prep of your natural tooth. Therefore dentists usually recommend composite fillings to repair tooth decay.
Amalgam however has its advantages such as being less sensitive to saliva and faster to work with which is why it is often used in pediatric dentistry where cooperation might be limited and a shorter treatment time is desired for the child’s comfort.