How Tooth Decay Occurs
The bacteria that live in your mouth love to feed on the sugars in the food you eat. When they convert the sugar into the energy they require to live, they produce acid. The acid is what causes tooth decay.
There are many ways that you can prevent decay including limiting your intake of sugary foods and drinks, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, staying hydrated with tap water and keeping your regular checkups with us. By seeing us twice per year, we’ll be sure to identify any potential problems. They can then be addressed straight away so that you won’t require more complex treatment in the future. If we do find tooth decay, we can treat it with a filling.
The Materials Used for Fillings
There are two different materials that your filling can be made from composite or glass ionomer cement. The material we recommend for your filling will depend on which tooth we’re addressing and how extensive the decay is.
We do not use silver amalgam fillings. If you currently have a metal filling and would like to replace it, we would be happy to do so with our tooth-coloured options.
What to Expect in Getting a Filling
Receiving a filling is a simple, comfortable process. You’ll see one of our experienced dentists to have your teeth evaluated. We’ll take an X-ray to get a more in-depth look at the decay. Some people may need a root canal if there is an infection in the nerve of the tooth. Others with extensive decay may require an extraction and tooth replacement solution.
If we determine you need a filling, we’ll give you a local injection to numb the area, if desired. Then, we can clean out the decay and apply the filling material. It will be allowed to harden, and we’ll shape it to be smooth and match the rest of your teeth.
Dental Fillings
"Using modern white fillings, we can match the colour of your tooth, so that repairs look natural."
- Dr Karen Lee
Dental Fillings at My Dental Moments
Despite your best efforts with brushing and flossing, you may still have tooth decay set in. At My Dental Moments, we provide tooth-coloured fillings that nobody will be able to see. Your filling will blend in with the rest of your teeth and address your decay so that it can’t spread to the rest of your teeth.
Do you need a dental filling?
At our West Ryde clinic, our team can help you with an oral health assessment and can place any fillings you may need. We will ensure any cavities and decay are fully cleaned to ensure the issue doesn't return. Come meet the My Dental Moments team and our experienced dentists will assess your oral health and discuss all your options.