“You need a filling” is a sentence no one wants to hear. But if you have tooth decay, a filling is the best way to protect your teeth from more severe problems. At University Dental Care in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Lanny Rubin, DDS, and his team have discovered OMNICHROMA®, which is a tooth-colored composite that is able to exactly match the existing tooth shade. This state-of-the-art option provides a natural and almost unnoticeable restoration. If you’re concerned about cavities or want to replace old silver amalgam fillings, call the office or request an appointment online today.
Tooth decay and cavities can cause various uncomfortable symptoms, including:
Many patients have tooth decay but don’t have any symptoms.
The best way to find out if you need a filling is to have regular dental checkups so your dentist can monitor your teeth for decay or any other potential problems.
Tooth decay and cavities develop over time. The bacteria on your teeth eat sugar and create plaque, a clear sticky film. Plaque is also acidic, and the acid can erode your tooth enamel, creating tiny holes.
Over time, bacteria and plaque penetrate your teeth, causing more severe damage. When untreated, this process can continue until it finally reaches the pulp tissue of your tooth, at which time your tooth will become very sensitive and will require root canal therapy.
University Dental Care stays up to date with the most modern dental materials and techniques. With local anesthetics, you don’t feel anything while you get a filling.
Your dentist begins by numbing your tooth and the surrounding tissue. Then, Dr. Rubin removes the soft decay until he has solid remaining tooth structure. At that point, he is able to place a white composite filling.
Your dentist fills your tooth with OMNICHROMA composite filling. OMNICHROMA provides a perfect match to your teeth, making your filling virtually invisible. The team hasn’t used metal amalgam (which included mercury) for over 30 years.
In severe cases, your dentist might fit you for a dental crown to protect a tooth with a large filling.
Your tooth might be a little tender or sensitive for a day or so after you have a filling. When you go home, your mouth will still be numb, so avoid hot drinks and chewing until sensation returns to avoid injury.
You can brush and floss your teeth normally after a filling.
If you have any tooth decay symptoms or are due for a routine dental check-up, call University Dental Care or request your appointment online today.