Preventive dentistry, as its name implies, is the practice of keeping up with oral health to keep problems at bay rather than responding after problems occur. One of the main elements involved in preventive dentistry is dental fillings as described by the dentist in Maryville, TN. Residents of Maryville, TN can make informed decisions about their oral care by understanding the purpose of dental fillings and maintaining good oral health for years to come.
The Preventive Factors of Dental Fillings
1. How to Halt the Decay
A very important job of a dental filling is to stop the advancement of tooth decay. In the case that your dentist finds a cavity, they can cut away the decay and fill it with an appropriate substance. This way the decay cannot go any further in the tooth and cause bigger problems like infection or abscesses.
2. Restoring Tooth Function
Because cavities can make your teeth weaker, more prone to breaking, and less able to perform their function. They restore a tooth’s structure and strength so it can properly work for chewing, biting, and speaking, by filling in the holes made from cavities. This is imperative in preserving good oral health and avoiding more severe issues.
3. Preventing Further Damage
When it comes to a filled tooth, there is less risk of damage and decay. The filling substance acts as a shield between the rest of the tooth and bacteria and plaque. That is why this preventative procedure is essential and can go a long way in ensuring healthy teeth over the years that prevent you from needing costly invasive treatments such as are root canals or extractions.
There are several Types of Dental Fillings and Their Benefits
1. Amalgam Fillings
Since they are strong and permanent, they are used in cases of molars or premolars that can withstand the force of chewing. Composite fillings are similarly cheap, however, additionally, they convey with them the unfavorable elements of that steel silver shade for apparatus between tooth and other sites.
2. Composite Fillings
A composite filling is a blend of plastic and fine glass particles. They’re tooth-colored, so they look great in visible teeth. Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings can bond directly to the tooth structure, providing more support and necessitating less removal of healthy tooth tissue. They are also general-purpose, so they can generally be used over a wide range of cavity sizes.
3. Gold Fillings
Gold fillings are composed of a gold alloy and they are prized for their strength and also for how long they will last. They have a long life and are highly resistant to abrasion & corrosion. However, gold fillings are far more expensive and take longer for the dentist to place.
4. Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are custom-made in a dental lab to your tooth exactly. They are natural-looking and tooth-colored while being extremely durable. Resistant to staining, porcelain is a great option for teeth that show when you smile.
Fillings are a preventive dentistry service that stops the progress of tooth decay, develops normal function in damaged teeth, and prevents any further damage from occurring. Maryville, TN residents can benefit from realizing the importance of dental fillings and promoting urgent dental care. Visiting your dentist regularly and taking care of your oral health is imperative in preventing dental cavities, and ensuring a long-lasting dentition. If you believe you have a cavity or need a filling, contact your local dentist today to speak about the best practices available for your care.
