Dental Fillings in Royal Palm Beach

Tooth decay, also called caries, is one of the most common preventable diseases today. Cavities are prevalent in children, but people of all ages can develop tooth decay. Unfortunately, it's not always apparent until your dentist diagnoses the decay during your dental checkup in Wellington, FL. 

Contrary to popular belief, a small or emerging cavity is usually not visible and does not cause a toothache. It is only larger or more advanced decay that causes pain. 

While the instances of decay have decreased dramatically with the addition of fluoride in drinking water and preventive dentistry treatments such as fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and professional dental cleanings, many people will still have at least one cavity during their lifetime.

In the past, a cavity meant a dark, metal filling to repair the tooth. Today, however, tooth-colored fillings are available to improve oral health and protect your smile.

Tooth decay develops when plaque and bacteria create acids in the mouth that soften protective tooth enamel. Bacteria reproduce rapidly when they have plenty of fuel – sugar, starchy foods, and dental plaque. The best way to prevent tooth decay is to eat a healthy diet and practice good oral hygiene:

• Brush at least twice daily or after every meal if possible!
• Floss each day at least twice.
• Get professional dental cleanings twice yearly.
• Get regular dental exams twice yearly.
• Allow for routine x-rays.
• Report concerns to your dentist.

If you often present with cavities in our dental office, we may talk to you about a dental sealant. This treatment keeps debris and plaque away from teeth, essentially sealing the teeth to prevent tooth decay. 

Early Cavity Detection Is Crucial

Regular dental x-rays assist Dr. Bussell in diagnosing dental decay in its earliest stages when it is easier and less costly to treat. Early detection is essential because dental decay typically does not cause pain until it is advanced and puts your tooth at risk. When dental decay is left untreated, you may require more complex treatment, including root canal therapy, a dental crown, or even an extraction followed by tooth replacement.

Tooth replacement is essential because it prevents tooth migration and levels your bite force. A level bite force promotes healthier teeth and less wear on your enamel. 

At Dental Center of Wellington, we use digital x-rays, which provide high-resolution images and emit up to 80 percent less radiation for improved patient safety.

Tooth-colored fillings offer several benefits over silver metal fillings:

• Your dentist removes less tooth structure when treating the decay
• Tooth-colored fillings look natural and blend with your smile.
• Composite is less sensitive or reactive to temperature change.
• Tooth-colored fillings allow you to chew immediately.

While the mercury in tooth-colored fillings has been deemed safe through studies, many patients feel more at ease with our mercury-free composite resin. 

Composite Resin Fillings at our Royal Palm Beach Dental Office

Tooth-colored fillings are made from composite resin – a mixture of BPA-free plastic and microscopic glass particles. Composite offers a wide range of shades to match natural teeth, and your dentist will use a color that closely matches your smile. 

After diagnosing dental decay, Dr. Bussell will discuss your treatment with you. If anesthetic is necessary, he will gently numb the area around your tooth, so you remain comfortable throughout your procedure.

Dr. Bussell will gently remove all signs of decay and bacteria before applying a bonding agent to your tooth. He will then carefully select a composite to match your tooth and begin filling your cavity in layers, hardening each layer with a curing light. Once your tooth is sealed, Dr. Bussell will polish and shape your filling to blend perfectly with your smile.

Dental restorations last a long time, but many will need to be replaced at some point to remain effective. The force from chewing, teeth grinding, and age can cause a filling to break down.

We can replace old metal fillings with cosmetic tooth-colored fillings or crowns to protect your teeth and improve your smile.

Dental Bonding with Tooth-Colored Filling Material

Our composite filling material is also beneficial in the repair of small chips, wear, and small gaps between teeth. This conservative cosmetic dentistry procedure makes it possible to improve the appearance of teeth by adding to the existing tooth structure. Dental bonding is one of the least expensive cosmetic dentistry options and is non-invasive. Many patients choose to bond their teeth because we can often complete treatment during one dental visit. 

Contact Us for a Dental Appointment Near Wellington, FL

Contact our Royal Palm Beach dental office today to learn more about tooth-colored fillings or schedule your next dental exam.