Are your teeth suddenly sensitive or causing you pain? Especially when you eat or drink something sweet, hot, or cold? Or when you bite down? Can you see holes or pits in your teeth? Or brown, black, or white spots on any of your teeth? Then you might have a cavity.

Don’t panic. Schultz Family Dentistry in Byron, MI, can help. A quick exam will determine if you need dental fillings.

What Are Dental Fillings?

A dental filling is a special material that a dentist uses to repair damage caused by tooth decay or trauma. Fillings restore your tooth’s strength and proper function and prevent infection.

Are There Different Types of Fillings?

Fillings can be made of various materials. But the most common types are metal amalgam and tooth-colored composite.

Metal Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings, often referred to as silver fillings, are made from a mixture of metals, such as silver, mercury, zinc, and copper. They are affordable and long-lasting. However, their silver color is more noticeable and can darken the entire tooth. Some patients also experience sensitivity to the metal used in these fillings, and the mercury content continues to raise safety concerns.

Tooth-Colored Composite Fillings

Tooth-colored composite fillings are made from a combination of acrylic resin and ceramic. They are the most popular choice for fillings today for a variety of reasons. They are custom matched to your tooth color. They also require less enamel removal, so they preserve more of your natural tooth. Additionally, they can be placed in a single appointment because they don’t need to be created in a dental laboratory.

What Is the Procedure for Filling a Cavity?

These steps may vary slightly, depending on your specific case.

But in general, you can expect:

  1. We will apply a numbing gel to the gums, and once it has taken effect, we will inject a local anesthetic.
  2. We will remove the decayed areas.
  3. We will place the composite filling in the cavity in layers and use an ultraviolet light to cure and harden each layer.
  4. We will make any adjustments needed to ensure your new filling is comfortable.
  5. We will polish your new filling.

Don’t Wait To Get That Cavity Treated

Don’t ignore cavities. If left untreated, cavities continue to grow and will only get worse with time. Getting a filling can help prevent permanent damage and bigger problems down the line.

Where Can I Get Tooth-Colored Fillings Near Me?

Schultz Family Dentistry has years of experience correcting and restoring teeth. Make an appointment with the professional and caring team in our Byron, MI, offices.

Call us at 810-735-9426 or complete this online form to schedule an appointment today!

A healthier smile is just down the road. Contact us today!