Dr. Blevins may recommend a filling to restore a tooth with a small cavity. Unlike other offices, we only offer fillings made of composite resin. These tooth-colored fillings are an exact color match to the rest of your enamel so you won’t be able to tell they’re even there!
In the past, silver and gold amalgam fillings were your only options. Today, tooth-colored fillings are the treatment of choice at Blevins Dentistry.
First, we’ll need to numb your tooth with a local anesthetic. Once you’re properly numb, we’ll use a dental drill to remove the decayed tooth structure. As soon as the cavity is removed, we’ll move onto the next step toward restoring the tooth.
Typically, we will apply the composite filling in layers and use a special dental-grade light to harden each layer appropriately. Once the material is in place, Dr. Blevins will mold the composite resin to fit your tooth. The composite resin will have been perfectly blended to match the color of your natural enamel.
Fillings are an effective restorative and cosmetic outcome for patients with small cavities. If the cavity is too large for a filling, Dr. Blevins may instead recommend a dental crown to restore the tooth. The sooner you call our office, the more likely we’ll be able to treat your tooth in a way that’s minimally invasive.
One of the main problems with is that they expand and contract with changes in temperature. For example, an amalgam filling may expand slightly when you drink a cup of hot coffee or contract while you eat ice cream.
Over time, these small movements can allow bacteria to enter inside your tooth and cause what are called “secondary” cavities. A secondary cavity is tooth decay that forms along a filling or other dental restoration.
The good news is that composite resin doesn’t expand and contract with temperature fluctuations. This means that your risk of secondary cavities is greatly reduced. Also, match the natural color of your teeth. That way, you don’t have to feel self-conscious about having metal in your mouth.
Dr. Blevins and his team are dedicated to providing excellent patient care. As such, please don’t hesitate to call our office if you’re experiencing any dental pain or discomfort. Depending on the cause, we may recommend a filling to restore the tooth’s natural strength and appearance.
To request an appointment with our family dentist in Mullins, SC, call Blevins Dentistry at (843) 561-4039. You may also fill out our online contact form.
We Can’t Wait to Help You Create Your Dream Smile!