Did you know that dental fillings are a great option for those individuals looking to improve their smiles? Bacteria in our mouths that is not washed or brushed away can form a thin layer on our teeth and gums called plaque. Plaque can eventually harden into tartar and along with harmful acids produced from substances such as sugar, can begin to erode the tooth enamel. A cavity is formed when the tooth enamel has worn away to the point that the root of the tooth is exposed.
To combat the effects of cavities, a dental filling must be used. In a dental filling procedure, the decay is removed and the hole is filled in with a dental filling. Two of the most popular forms of dental fillings are dental amalgams and dental composites.
A dental amalgam is a metal-based filling often used for large cavities. Having existed for over 150 years in America, amalgams are a proven procedure that continues to protect our teeth to this day. However, amalgams do have a metallic look and if you are looking for a more natural-looking filling, another type must be used, such as dental composites.
Dental composites, also known as tooth-colored composites, are an excellent filling choice for those who wish to have a filling that blends in with the look of their natural teeth. Composites are typically used for small to medium-sized cavities, and can even work on cavities that are too small for dental amalgams. If a composite should crack or break, it does not need to be removed and replaced like dental amalgams must be. Instead, a composite can be repaired many times over without removing the original.
If you would like to have your teeth inspected by our team at Olympia Dental Group, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Thinh Ho and our team at our dentist office in Lacey, Washington. To schedule a visit, please call us at 360-943-4777. We look forward to hosting your smile!
