Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Fillings

Cavities can be scary but are preventable and treatable. If you fail to catch a cavity in time, and a hole is bored completely through your tooth enamel, then a dental filling needs to be used to fix the cavity. Two of the best options for cavity fillings are dental amalgams and composites. Here are some frequently asked questions concerning each:

Question: What is a cavity?
– A cavity is a hole in your tooth, typically caused by plaque. Plaque is a thin layer of bacteria that resides in our mouths, often on our teeth. When the introduction of substances such as sugar are introduced to our mouths, the bacteria are activated and convert the sugars into harmful enamel-eating acids. After enough of the tooth enamel is worn away, a hole forms in the tooth called a cavity.

Question: How do we prevent cavities?
– Preventing cavities begins with removing plaque buildup in our mouths. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day are proven methods for preventing cavities. Professional cleanings at least once every six months are also vital to ensure your mouth is safe from the harm of tooth decay.

Question: What are some of the most common types of dental fillings?
– Dental fillings typically consist of dental amalgams and composite fillings. Dental amalgams are metal-based fillings that work well on large cavities. Composite-based fillings are tooth-colored fillings that work best on small to medium-sized cavities.

If you need an oral examination for cavities, or would like a professional cleaning, please schedule an appointment at Chelsea Family Dentistry to meet with Dr. Napieralski, Dr. Wisniewski, Dr. Shayota, and our team. Schedule your visit with our dentists in Chelsea, Michigan, by calling us at 734-475-8500. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day!