DENTAL FILLINGS

STOP DECAY & REPAIR DAMAGE TO TEETH

Decay, or a cavity, is a hole that can grow bigger and deeper over time. A dental filling is used to restore the function and integrity of a missing tooth structure caused by decay or external trauma. At Anthony Martin Dentistry we offer both amalgam (silver) and resin (tooth-colored) fillings. During your consultation, we can help you decide which type of filling will best meet your needs and fit your budget.

Couple smiling sealants and fillings

WHAT CAUSES CAVITIES?

Dental decay, or cavities, is a common dental problem that affects 91% of Americans over the age of 20, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even when we do our best to avoid cavities, they can still occasionally happen. The enamel of a tooth breaks down when the pH of the mouth remains too acidic for extended periods of time. The combination of drinking sugary beverages and eating sweet snacks while not cleaning the teeth well can create an environment that is favorable for the development of cavities.

Bacteria normally present in the mouth thrive in an acidic environment. Brushing teeth twice a day and flossing every day can mitigate the factors that cause decay and help prevent cavities. Plaque also plays a role in the decay process. Dental plaque is a clear, sticky substance that forms in the mouth and on the teeth after eating and/or drinking a lot of sugars and starches. The bacteria in the mouth thrive on the sugars and starches and begin to make the sticky substance known as plaque. If plaque stays on the teeth for an extended period of time it will harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental hygienist.

Tartar is a harbor for bacteria and also promotes decay. In addition to good home hygiene routines, it is equally as important to maintain your regular dental hygiene visits every 6 months. These appointments allow the dental hygienist to remove any plaque and tartar that has built up and thoroughly clean the teeth.

RISK FACTORS THAT INCREASE THE CHANCE OF DECAY

Poor Oral Hygiene

Small children may not have developed the dexterity to properly brush their own teeth and may need the help of a parent or guardian. Teenagers may tend to become lazy about oral hygiene and brush their teeth only once a day. In both cases, it is important to share with children and teenagers the importance of good oral hygiene habits so they may carry the good habits into adulthood.

While most people enjoy a sugary snack once a day, it is important to limit the sugary snacks and drinks as they are more likely to cause decay. A great tip that can help reduce the lingering sugar on the teeth is to rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after drinking a soda or eating a sweet treat.

Having a chronically dry mouth can increase the risk of decay. Our saliva acts to neutralize the pH in our mouth and wash away the acid produced by bacteria which causes plaque. Certain medications, such as allergy medicine, can create a chronically dry mouth and therefore it is important to keep teeth clean by brushing them twice daily.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps to prevent cavities by strengthening the enamel. Bottled water, a popular beverage to drink, does not contain fluoride and so it is important to use toothpaste that contains fluoride.

A yorktown family dentistry

COMPOSITE FILLINGS IN YORKTOWN, VA

Anthony Martin Dentistry of Yorktown, VA offers both amalgam and tooth-colored or composite fillings. If it is determined that you need a filling to restore decay or to replace an older filling, we will work together to help you determine which filling material is right for you.

Composite fillings have over a 50-year history and are made of a durable resin material that is initially soft but cures to full strength after exposure to the dental curing light. Composite fillings are bonded or “glued” in place to the tooth on a microscopic level.

Composite fillings are the most popular choice of filling material because they are tooth-colored and designed to match the natural shade of your teeth. Composite fillings will last a long time and are an aesthetically pleasing option to restore decayed, cracked or broken teeth and replace fillings. Amalgam fillings or silver fillings have been used for over a century and are still used today. After your consultation at Anthony Martin Dentistry, we can discuss which filling material is the best choice for your restoration.

Dr. Martin is highly skilled in providing both amalgam and composite fillings for patients with tooth decay or cracked or broken teeth. At Anthony Martin Dentistry we encourage and promote preventative dental care which helps you maintain a healthy smile for a lifetime. If you have any dental concerns or issues call Anthony Martin Dentistry today (757) 886-0300.

DO I NEED A FILLING?

Even though decay is the most common reason to get a filling, it is not the only reason. There are several other reasons that fillings may be used to treat certain dental conditions, such as:

  • Tooth decay
  • Cracked or broken teeth
  • Teeth that are worn down due to nail-biting, tooth grinding, or using your teeth to open things

WHAT TYPE OF FILLING IS BEST FOR ME?

Factors considered in deciding which type of filling is the best option include:

  • Medical history
  • Location of the cavity
  • Esthetic needs
  • Biting force
  • Durability
  • Cost
  • Number of visits necessary
  • Your personal preference

Your Trusted Partner in Dentistry

Comprehensive Dental Care In Yorktown, Virginia

Ready to enhance your dental health with compassionate, expert care? Visit Anthony Martin Dentistry to experience our patient-focused approach in Yorktown, Virginia. Whether you’re looking for cosmetic, reconstructive or general dental care, your perfect smile starts here.