When bacteria invade the enamel and infect the tooth’s interior layer of dentin, the decay must be removed, and restoration is required to replace the lost structure.
What are Resin Fillings?
Resin fillings use a specialized resin material matched in shade to your natural tooth color. Once the decay (a cavity) is removed, the void is filled with inorganic material, such as resin. Dental fillings have been performed for millennia using various materials, but resin fillings are one of the most modern and preferred options for cavities.
DMD Dental uses resin, which releases minerals (phosphate and calcium) natural to the tooth to regenerate its strength at the most vulnerable junction – between the natural tooth and the dental material. Additionally, the resin releases fluoride, increasing the tooth’s resistance to future acid erosion by interacting with the mouth’s pH, exchanging ions with saliva, and regenerating strength.
What are the Benefits of Resin Fillings?
Resin fillings are durable and can last many years with the right care. Many people prefer them because they’re completely unnoticeable, unlike amalgam fillings, and do not cause as much destruction over time.
What Can I Expect From Resin Fillings?
Fillings can be uncomfortable, so our team will take every step to help you feel relaxed. We also make conservative preparations to preserve the tooth’s structure and longevity. Dr. Du Mond will administer a local anesthetic, and once the treatment area is numb, special tools will be used to remove the decayed tissue. A desensitizer will be applied to cover the dentin that can cause post-operative sensitivity, then a bonding agent will be applied, and finally, the composite resin will be placed into the void, reestablishing the structure. It will be cured with a light and then polished to look like the rest of the tooth. Dr. Du Mond will then check your bite for any irregularities. Afterward, you can go about the rest of your day.
The Resin Filling Process and Beyond
After your filling, it’s normal to have sensitivity and tenderness in the treatment area. Dr. Du Mond will give you detailed instructions on when to eat and drink, as well as when to return for a follow-up appointment. The best way to extend the life of your resin fillings is by brushing twice daily and flossing at least once per day. We also recommend avoiding hard foods, getting regular professional cleanings, and regularly using fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel, preventing the need for future fillings.
Resin Fillings in Scottsdale, AZ
To learn more about resin fillings, contact our Scottsdale, AZ office by calling or filling out our online form.