Our teeth have many layers. The outside of our teeth is a protective layer called enamel. When the enamel gets eroded to the point that a hole forms, that hole is called a cavity. This hole can lead to toothaches, infections, and tooth failure. A dental filling is a dental procedure done to fill the cavity and prevent further tooth decay.
There are two common types of dental fillings: dental amalgams and dental composites. Both are great for repairing teeth, though there are some differences.
Dental composites are fillings that mimic the natural look of your teeth. A composite filling is both metal-free and mercury-free. Your open smile will remain unaffected, as the filling blends in very well with its surroundings. Though they are very durable, composite fillings can be repaired many times over, if needed, without the need of having to remove the original filling, as would be required with a dental amalgam.
Dental amalgams are shiny, metallic fillings that are extremely long-lasting. If a large filling is needed, amalgams tend to be most effective (though that will be up to you and Dr. Nathan Owens). Dental amalgams use a mix of various metals and a very small amount of mercury as a binding agent to create the filling. Dental amalgams have been utilized and improved for more than a century, and are even more effective today than in the past. Improved precision has helped the effectiveness of amalgams.
If you suspect that you have a cavity and therefore need a filling, meet with our team at Owens Family & Cosmetic Dentistry for an oral examination. Please call (931) 277-4666 to schedule an appointment at our office in Pulaski, Tennessee. Come on in to learn more about your options to get your smile bright and healthy again.