Most of us have painful memories of getting fillings as a kid. The worst part was the shots of Novocain before the drilling. The memories of this trauma from our childhood still haunt us as adults. Believe it or not, Buffalo Square Dental has found a way to minimize (even eliminate) the pain of that Novocain shot. Everyone gets this treatment, no matter how old you are, because at Buffalo Square Dental we treat everyone like a kid.
Fillings
There are several options for fillings. Prior to treatment we will review those options so you can make the decision that’s right for you. Fillings are recommended for small to medium sized restorations. They have a lifespan of 12.8 years for amalgam and 7.8 years for composite resins. With our regularly scheduled teeth cleanings and check ups, our hygienists will teach you ways to make those fillings last even longer.
Amalgam Fillings
Dental amalgam is a mixture of metal materials including silver, tin and mercury.
Amalgam fillings expand with age, possibly cracking the tooth and requiring repair and filling replacement. However, the chance of leakage under the amalgam filling is less than with the composite option, thus reducing the risk of decay.
Composite/Resin Fillings
Dental composites, also called white fillings, are a group of restorative materials used in dentistry. As with other composite materials, a dental composite typically consists of a resin-based matrix. These fillings are bonded to the tooth, making it a slightly stronger than if using the amalgam option. Composite fillings shrink with age and may pull away from the tooth allowing leakage.
Root Canal
A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form.
A tooth’s nerve is not vitally important to a tooth’s health and function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. Its only function is sensory — to provide the sensation of hot or cold. The presence or absence of a nerve will not affect how the tooth functions.
