Filling Materials Are Often Determined by a Tooth’s Visibility in Your Smile

Tooth decay is often caused by poor oral hygiene or small chips that go unrepaired. When tooth decay invades the healthy enamel, it will inevitably start to spread. Fortunately, if a cavity is detected early and it is small enough, Dr. Napieralski, Dr. Wisniewski, and Dr. Shayota can often repair it with a simple dental filling.

Our dentists will first need to conduct a thorough examination of the tooth. This will likely include taking some X-rays to make sure the interior of the tooth has not been compromised by decay. Drs. Napieralski, Wisniewski, and Shayota will then use a drill to carefully remove all traces of tooth decay. The material they recommend for the new filling will be based on the tooth’s location and its prevalence in your smile.

Amalgam fillings are dark in color, making them a poor choice for repairing a cavity in your smile. However, composite fillings are made from a special resin material that can be perfectly shaded to match the surrounding tooth enamel. This often makes them the superior choice for repairing a cavity that has formed in a visible area of your smile.

After applying the filling, Drs. Napieralski, Wisniewski, and Shayota will use a special ultraviolet light to cure and harden it. This will cement its relationship with the surrounding tooth enamel and effectively restore the tooth’s function and appearance for a very long time to come.

If you suspect a cavity has formed on one of your teeth and you live in Chelsea, Michigan, you should not delay in calling 734-475-8500 to have it examined and treated at Chelsea Family Dentistry.