What is a cavity?

A cavity results when a tooth has been deteriorated due to the enamel (hard outer protection of the tooth) of the teeth being softened and worn down. The enamel of your teeth can decay from being exposed for long periods of time to acidic materials such as sugars and starches. If not treated properly, the cavity can infect the dentin of your teeth (the tissue underneath the enamel) and eventually even the pulp (living tissue and blood vessels in the center of the tooth).

What are the symptoms of a cavity?

If your asking, “what does a cavity feel like”, we are here to help. Since there are no nerves in the enamel, you will not have any paint until the decay reaches the internal tooth tissue. This discomfort will worsen as the decay of the enamel increases. Symptoms to look for include sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks as well as sugar. If you have these discomforts please give our office a call as you do not want to wait until it's too late to start treating your cavity. As a Brandon, FL family dentist, Family, Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry has the experience you can rely on to diagnose and treat any cavity that you may be experiencing.

What is a dental filling?

If you've been told you need a dental filling, you're not alone: 92% of Americans have had at least one cavity. Brandon, FL dental fillings are the tried-and-true treatment for treating cavities – and they come in a variety of options to suit every need.

Are fillings safe while pregnant?

It is a good rule of thumb to postpone major Brandon, FL dental procedures until after the pregnant mother gives birth. In some situations having dental treatment is necessary during pregnancy. An experienced dentist should be able to properly cavities and perform a filling safely during pregnancy. If you know you are pregnant or think you might be, you should first find out then inform your dentist before any procedures are performed.

What are dental fillings made of?

Dental fillings in Brandon, FL can be made of silver amalgam, composite, porcelain, and even gold. Amalgam fillings have been used by dentists for more than a 150 years. However composite fillings, which are made of a tooth-colored plastic and glass composite, are quickly becoming the preferred dental filling due to their natural appearance and durability. The type of dental filling used is determined by a number of factors, including size and location of the cavity, as well as your budget. Our office no longer places silver amalgam fillings, principally due to their 50% mercury content. Mercury is biohazardous, harmful environmentally, and many patients are concerned about risks to their health. Further, most people prefer not to have silver or black fillings.

If your silver fillings make you feel self conscious when you smile, or it's simply time to replace them, consider white fillings. White fillings are just as durable as they are attractive! Made of composite resin, white fillings match the natural color of your teeth and are an excellent option for small to mid-sized cavities. White fillings are strong, stain-resistant and require less removal of your tooth structure than amalgam fillings. If fillings are very large, porcelain inlays or onlays, made same day, in office, may be a more durable option.

Cavity Filling in Brandon, FL

What is a cavity?

What are the symptoms of a cavity?

What is a dental filling?

Are fillings safe while pregnant?

What are dental fillings made of?

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