If you experience tooth sensitivity when drinking hot or cold beverages or while chewing, chances are you have a cavity. Cavities are the result of tooth decay, and can involve either the enamel or the dentin (the inner layer), or both. Diagnosis of a cavity typically requires the tooth to be filled with Dental Fillings in Wichita KS.
There are many types of dental fillings available from which to choose. One can have their cavity filled with gold, silver amalgam, or tooth-colored materials called composite resins. The following is more information about each or you can check.
* Gold -; Besides being in vogue among celebrities, gold fillings are valued for their durability often lasting up to 15 years, and they never corrode. They are strong and can withstand the force applied from chewing. These attributes come at a price -; a gold filling can cost more than ten times its silver cousin. Due to the work involved in placing them, two office visits are typically required.
* Silver Amalgam -; Like their pricier counterparts, silver amalgam fillings are long-lasting and quite strong. Silver amalgams consist of mercury combined with silver, zinc, tin, and copper. A disadvantage of silver fillings is that as they age, the surrounding tooth material may take on a silvery hue that can be unattractive. Amalgam fillings, compared to other fillings, may crack or fracture due to contraction and expansion.
* Tooth-Colored Composites -; Considered by many to be the Rolls Royce of dental fillings in Wichita KS, these fillings closely match the color of the existing teeth, and depending on the skill of the dentist, may match perfectly. This filling material is ideally suited for areas on the front teeth. A major advantage is that this type of material actually bonds chemically to the tooth providing added strength and support. It is perfect for repairing chipped and broken teeth as well.
Once the filling material has been chosen, the tooth will be prepared by removing all decay with dental drills and other instruments. If the decay is close to the root, a layer of composite material or glass ionomer may first be put in place. The filling material will be applied in layers until the area is filled. The dentist will then shape the filling, ensure the bite is even, and perform a final polishing.
