Your Brentwood family dentist protects your smile with cosmetic fillings

One of the most common dental problems experienced today is cavities. These small issues can seem to be impossible to avoid, though your dentist has suggestions to help you do just that. The primary cause of cavities is acid from oral bacteria. We learn that sugar is bad for our teeth, but that is only because sugar feeds bacteria, which leads to the acidic byproduct that eats away healthy enamel.

Cavity treatment consists of removing tooth material that has been damaged by acid. After damaged enamel has been removed, something must take its place to preserve the integrity of the tooth. Without a filling of some sort, bacteria will be able to accumulate in the hole and cause extensive problems.

Fillings have long been a part of dental care. What most people know are amalgam fillings, also called silver fillings. Though known for long lasting results, the problem with amalgam fillings is that they are silver for a relatively short time. Over years, amalgam becomes quite dark and therefore more noticeable in the smile. Another option, available from Brentwood dentist Dr. Jamil Alkhoury, is to repair teeth with cosmetic fillings.

Cosmetic dental fillings are made from composite resin material, which is a mixture of plastic and glass. The primary draw of composite resin tooth fillings is their resemblance to natural tooth material. Mixed in the dental office, composite material is shaded to match surrounding tooth enamel for the most discreet restoration. Though it is nice to retain the natural smile, there is more to think about when repairing damage from a cavity.

In addition to the natural look of composite fillings, these restorations are also very conservative and long lasting. Different from amalgam fillings, cosmetic fillings made of composite resin are bonded to the damaged tooth. As such, the only tooth material that needs to be removed is that which has been damaged by the cavity. The bonding process actually strengthens the damaged tooth, fortifying it for years of functionality.

We understand that the look of your smile is important to you. The treatment options available at Brentwood Family Dental have been assembled with this in mind. To give your smile the very best, call our office today and schedule your visit.

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