Cavities are extremely common. Indeed, many, if not most, of our Madison cosmetic dentistry patients have had one or more cavities. While no-one enjoys learning that he or she has a cavity, there are aesthetically pleasing treatment options available. In the past, patients were forced to choose amalgam (metal) fillings because of their unmatched strength and durability. With advances in dental technology, we now have dental fillings that are completely inconspicuous while still being incredibly durable and strong. The top treatments for cavities include tooth-colored fillings, inlays and onlays, and dental crowns.
Top Treatments for Cavities: Tooth-colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings are now safer and stronger than ever before. Tooth-colored fillings are designed to match your tooth color so that they blend in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. For our patients in Madison, tooth-colored fillings are practically undetectable once placed in the mouth. Because tooth-colored fillings are comprised of a special, durable resin and do not contain mercury they are also safer than amalgam fillings. Tooth-colored fillings have a lower risk of cracking or fracturing than amalgam fillings, require less of the healthy tooth structure to be removed, and are virtually as strong as metal fillings.
Top Treatments for Cavities: Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are incredibly strong and long-lasting dental restorations. They are typically used to treat rear teeth that have moderate decay. Because inlays and onlays are usually comprised of resin materials or porcelain, they are virtually undetectable once placed. For our patients in Madison, cavities may be treated with inlays and onlays when the remaining structure of a decayed tooth is good condition. One of the greatest advantages of inlays and onlays is that more of the remaining healthy tooth structure is preserved during the treatment than with dental crowns. Another advantage of inlays and onlays is that they are also more stain resistant than other dental restorations. Inlays and onlays may be used to repair chipped teeth, as an aesthetically pleasing replacement for amalgam fillings, and to reduce tooth sensitivity. Through the placement of inlays and onlays, we are able to preserve healthy tooth structure and prevent further damage and decay from occurring.
Top Treatments for Cavities: Dental Crowns
Dental crowns may be recommended when teeth are too extensively damaged for inlays and onlays. Dental crowns are “caps” that are placed over the visible portion of teeth to restore their size, shape, appearance, and strength. They provide protection as well as restore strength to damaged teeth. An advantage of dental crowns is their versatility. Dental crowns may be used to reinforce teeth that are weakened from decay, to preserve the otherwise healthy tooth structures within damaged or decayed teeth, and to treat teeth that are chipped or cracked.
Schedule a Dental Examination
If you would like to learn more about the top treatments for cavities, or to schedule an examination, please contact Dentistry for Madison today. Dr. Jay Hazen and Dr. Sarah J. Karls would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Our welcoming staff looks forward to helping you achieve the healthy, radiant smile you deserve.