Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes, caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping, sugary drinks, and not cleaning your teeth well. Cavities and tooth decay are among the world’s most common health problems. If cavities aren’t treated, they get larger and affect deeper layers of your teeth. They can lead to sever toothache, infection and tooth loss. We prefer to keep these restorations small to prevent tooth aches and loss of teeth.

Amalgam Fillings

Dental amalgam is a dental filling material used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay. Amalgam fillings are also known as “silver fillings”. When placing dental amalgam, the dentist first drills the tooth to remove the decay and then shapes the tooth cavity for placement of the amalgam filling. Then amalgam putty is placed in the prepared cavity, where it hardens into a solid filling.

Composite Fillings

Dental composite is material composed of plastic and glass used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay and to restore cracked teeth. Composite restorations are also known as “white” or “tooth colored” fillings. Following preparation, the dentist places the composite in layers, typically using a light specialized to harden each layer. This type of filling is bonded in place. When the process is finished, the dentist will shape the composite to fit the tooth. The dentist then polishes the composite to prevent staining and early wear.

Extractions

When it comes to dental procedures having a tooth extracted or “pulled” is among patients’ most dreaded prospects. Every effort will be made to try to repair and restore your tooth, however, sometimes a tooth extraction is necessary. Some teeth have such extensive decay and damage (broken or cracked) that repair is not possible. Teeth affected by advanced gum (periodontal) disease may also need to be pulled. Wisdom teeth removal is one of the more common categories of tooth extraction. Healing from a tooth extraction takes about five to seven days. The gum area should be fully healed in three to four weeks.

Our team realize that this procedure causes a lot of concern when it is recommended. We will keep you as comfortable as possible and alleviate whatever concerns you may have. We suggest a good movie and some comfort food ready for you when you return home.