A cavity is a small hole in your tooth that forms when tooth decay breaks down the hard outer surface of your tooth. Tooth decay is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. When you eat or drink sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that can attack your tooth enamel. Over time, this process can damage your tooth and lead to a cavity.
Cavities are common; in fact, according to the American Dental Association, approximately 92% of adults have experienced at least one cavity by the time they reach age 44. However, just because cavities are common doesn’t mean they’re not serious. If left untreated, cavities will continue to damage your teeth and can lead to a decline in oral health. Luckily in Robinson Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we have a variety of techniques and procedures that you can choose from depending on your dental needs.
The good news is that cavities are easily fixable with a routine, restorative dental treatment called a dental filling (also known as a tooth filling). At Robinson Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Lynnwood, WA, Dr. Brent Robinson can quickly and easily place a dental filling to stop the progression of tooth decay and restore your damaged tooth back to its original shape and function.
Types of Dental Fillings Lynnwood
There are two main types of dental fillings: amalgam (silver) fillings and composite (tooth-colored) fillings. Amalgam fillings have been used for over 150 years and are made from a combination of metals including silver, mercury, copper, and tin. Amalgam fillings are strong and durable and can last for many years; however, they are also noticeable because they’re silver in color.
Composite fillings are made from plastic resins that are matched to the color of your natural teeth. Composite fillings are less noticeable than amalgam fillings but may not be as long-lasting; however, they can be used on front or back teeth alike.
How Dental Fillings Lynnwood Are Placed
Placing a dental filling is usually a quick and easy procedure that can be done in just one visit to an affordable family dentistry Lynnwood clinic. First, Dr. Robinson will numb the area around the cavity using local anesthesia. Then he will clean out the cavity by removing all traces of decay using special instruments. Next, he will place the composite filling material into the cavity and shape it to match the contours of your tooth before hardening it using a special light. Once the filling has hardened, Dr. Robinson will check to make sure you’re comfortable with how it feels before sending you on your way!
Cavities may be common but that doesn’t make them any less serious; if left untreated, cavities will continue to damage your teeth and lead to further decline in oral health. Fortunately, at Robinson Dental in Lynnwood, dentist Dr. Brent Robinson can quickly place a dental filling to stop the progression of decay and restore your damaged tooth back to its original shape and function! So don’t wait – if you think you may have a cavity, call them today at 425-778-1164 to schedule an appointment at an affordable family dentistry Lynnwood ! Or visit their website at www.robinson-dental.com for more information such as the cost of tooth fillings Lynnwood.