So that a decaying tooth can be supplied with Dental Fillings in California MD, first the cavity must be removed. This preparatory treatment is called “dissection.” As a rule, traditional dental instruments like a “drill” are used. In the case of minor cavities, laser technology or chemical processes are sometimes used.
The goal of this preparation is to remove the cavity while removing as little tooth as possible. If the tooth is prepared accordingly, it can be supplied with a filling material and permanently sealed. Basically, dentists distinguish between plastic fillings and insert fillings.
Plastic filling materials are introduced into the tooth in a formable state and will harden there. Insert fillings are always made outside the mouth, fitted into the tooth, and then fastened. The material used is either a metallic or non-metallic material.
Amalgam – the “classic”
The silver-colored amalgam consists of a mixture of the metals silver, copper, tin and mercury. It is soft, easily moldable and thus suitable for the direct filling of a tooth. For extensive and difficult-to-reach cavities in the posterior region, where there is great pressure to bite, it is still considered the option of choice.
Glass ionomer cement – the transitional solution
Glass ionomer cement is a mineral cement specially developed for dental use. The material is soft and shows a matte, bright surface after curing. Glass ionomer cement performs well in the attachment of dentures, as a filling material, however, it has a limited shelf life. This is why it is mainly used for provisional fillings and cavity-prone milk teeth.
Composite – tooth-colored fillings
Composite Dental Fillings in California MD consists of about 20 percent plastic and about 80 percent silicone or fine glass particles. The material is considered a plastic filling but resembles ceramic. Thanks to improved material properties and new attachment methods composite are now dimensionally stable and comparatively durable and therefore suitable for the filling of anterior and posterior teeth.
Gold or platinum filling
Another rarely used alternative to the treatment of cavities are so-called gold fillings. Gold foils are “knocked” into the tooth -; layer by layer -; and the occlusal surface is shaped according to the natural teeth. Gold fillings, which are also very well suited for cervical fillings, are elaborate to manufacture and clearly visible due to their metallic color, but very durable. Check us out to learn more.
