Walnut Creek, CA dentist provides tooth-colored dental fillings that reserve tooth structure
Cavities. No one wants to hear that word at their check-up, but thanks to modern dental technologies and materials, the process for treating a tooth with a cavity and placing a dental filling is easier than ever. At the dental practice of Dr. Troy A. Schmedding in Walnut Creek, CA, we offer an alternative to the unsightly and invasive metal amalgam fillings traditionally used by dentists. With tooth-colored composite dental fillings, Dr. Schmedding can preserve as much of your tooth structure as possible, reducing the need for excessive drilling and providing a natural-looking result that blends in seamlessly with your smile.
Tooth decay explained
Tooth decay is a progressive condition that can develop due to many factors, such as insufficient oral hygiene, genetics, age, having certain diseases, hormonal changes, and even taking certain medications. Tooth decay starts when plaque forms on your teeth. This sticky, clear substance forms a coating on your teeth that bacteria thrive in; it contains acids that eat away at your tooth enamel, eventually allowing the bacteria and acids to reach the inner portion of your tooth (called dentin). If left untreated, tooth decay can reach the innermost portion of the tooth called the pulp, where sensitive nerves and blood vessels are located, causing severe pain and damage. However, early detection and treatment of cavities can help prevent tooth decay from progressing into a more painful and costly issue.
Benefits of composite fillings
If Dr. Schmedding detects a cavity in your mouth, he may recommend the placement of a composite filling. Composite resin is a dental material that allows a more conservative treatment of cavities. Rather than drilling out a large portion of the tooth and filling it with metal amalgam, which can lead to tooth breakage and sensitivity over time, only the decayed portions of the tooth are removed. Then, Dr. Schmedding paints on the composite material layer by layer to rebuild your tooth into its natural shape. Composite fillings are:
- Long-lasting
- Tooth-colored
- Effective
- Conservative
We make the filling process comfortable and stress-free, using the latest dental anesthetics and techniques to place your filling. To schedule your appointment at the dental practice of Dr. Troy Schmedding, call our Walnut Creek, CA office today at (925) 956-4266.
