Cavities are decay on your teeth that create a hole or divot. Left untreated, the cavity will grow and could become painful as well as lead to more costly procedures to correct the issue. Cracked teeth encourage decay which leads to cavities.
After the dentist thoroughly removes the decay, they will clean and disinfect the area. Then the empty space is filled with material to seal and protect it.
The types of material used can vary depending on the solution required, the cost you are comfortable with, and how you want the filling to look. Metal fillings include amalgam (a mixture of metals) and gold. Composites (specialized non-toxic plastics) and porcelain (powdered glass and acrylic resin) are also used. Composites and porcelain can be matched to you exisiting tooth color.
Some fillings can be completed without freezing. Otherwise freezing is used to numb the area being worked on. Most often there is little to no discomfort. When completed the filling is adjusted and polished to assure your bite is working as it had before.
Dr. Mangat will consult and guide you through the options, highlighting the benefits of those most appropriate.
