Tooth decay affects millions of Americans. Over 92% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have dental caries in at least one tooth. Over half of all American children between the ages of 12 and 15 suffer from cavities. In order to return the tooth to full function and health, your Southlake dentists, Dr. Gregory Wright and Dr. Victoria Heron, offer strong and esthetically pleasing dental fillings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Composite Fillings
Question: How do I know if I have a cavity?
Answer: Patients with tooth decay report a number of similar symptoms, including: Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, toothaches, and pain when biting down or chewing. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your Southlake dentists right away. Dr. Wright and Dr. Heorn can diagnose the cause and severity of your dental caries, providing quality treatment.
Question: What happens if I don’t seek treatment for tooth decay?
Answer: Without treatment, the decay will continue to spread, eventually reaching the inner pulp. The pulp ensures the health of your teeth, overseeing the flow of blood and nutrients to and from the tooth. Once bacteria reach the pulp, an infection begins. Dental infections may require a root canal or potentially, extraction.
Question: What are composite fillings?
Answer: Traditionally, fillings were made from metal. With our tooth-colored fillings, your Southlake dentists use a composite resin to restore teeth suffering from decay.
Question: What are the benefits of composite fillings?
Answer: Many people prefer composite fillings because they match the surrounding tooth. The composite material can even be shaded to ensure your fillings blend seamlessly with your smile. Composite fillings also provide strong restoration and don’t corrode or expand with time like metal fillings. In fact, the expansion of metal fillings over time may damage teeth and even lead to further decay. Composite fillings provide natural looking restorations that can withstand pressures and bite forces.
About Dr. Wright and Dr. Heron: Dr. Gregory Wright and Dr. Victoria Heron offer our patients in Southlake, TX the latest in cosmetic and comprehensive preventive and restorative dentistry. To schedule an appointment, call (817) 481-7999.
