Ardent Dental: Comprehensive Filling Services
At Ardent Dental in North Vancouver, we offer various types of fillings designed to restore the look and function of decayed or broken teeth effectively.
Understanding Cavities
When decay or dental caries destroy enamel and dentin, the resulting defect is called a cavity. Left untreated, cavities can cause extensive damage to the tooth and potentially lead to nerve infection. However, if caught early, cavities can be treated with a simple filling, typically in just one appointment.
The Filling Procedure
- Local Anesthetic: We start by applying a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
- Decay Removal: Using a drill or laser, we carefully remove the decay from the affected area.
- Cavity Preparation: The cavity is prepared, conditioned, and treated with special etching and bonding solutions.
- Filling Application: The composite filling material is applied in layers. Each layer is hardened using a special light.
- Shaping and Polishing: The final layers are shaped and polished to restore the tooth’s appearance and function, preventing further decay and protecting the sensitive inner layers from cold, heat, or pressure.
By following these steps, we ensure that your tooth is restored to its optimal health and functionality.
Visit Ardent Dental in North Vancouver for expert dental care and comprehensive filling services.
Composite Fillings: The Modern Choice
Composite (plastic resin) is the modern filling material of choice in most cases, offering several advantages over the traditional silver amalgam fillings.
Advantages of Composite Fillings
- Mercury-Free: Unlike silver amalgam fillings, which contain small amounts of mercury, composite fillings are completely mercury-free, ensuring a safer option for patients.
- Reduced Sensitivity: Composite fillings are less likely to cause sensitivity to heat or cold. The material does not expand or contract as much as silver amalgam, providing more comfort.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The composite material closely matches the color of your tooth, making the fillings nearly invisible and maintaining the natural appearance of your smile.
Schedule an Appointment
If you suspect you have a cavity and need a filling, contact us to schedule an appointment. We will discuss the best options for you and ensure your dental health is restored with the most suitable filling material.
In the past, dental fillings were commonly made from silver amalgam, a material that included small amounts of mercury. While effective, these fillings were noticeable and could cause sensitivity to heat and cold due to their tendency to expand and contract.
Today, modern dentistry favors composite fillings made from plastic resin. These new colored composite fillings not only match the natural shade of teeth, making them nearly invisible, but they also eliminate the concerns associated with mercury and offer superior comfort by minimizing sensitivity.