Treat tooth decay with composite dental fillings in Columbia, MO
Many people prefer to avoid the dentist but caring for your teeth sooner will prevent costly and time-consuming procedures later. Dr. Patton offers patients in the Columbia, MO, area composite dental fillings for a discrete restoration to your smile.
How tooth decay affects your oral health
Tooth decay is caused when bacteria in your mouth form acids that weaken your tooth enamel. Smaller cavities are easy to miss at home, but as the interior of your tooth is exposed, the nerve becomes more sensitive to hot and cold, and you may notice pain as you chew. Eventually, tooth decay can reach the root of your tooth, and the only way to preserve your tooth will be with a root canal.
While brushing and flossing can go a long way to prevent cavities, certain things will put you at higher risk. Smoking and drinking alcohol can dry out your mouth and increase your risk of cavities. Genetic factors, chronic diseases that affect your immune system, and certain medications can also have an impact. That is why routine cleanings and exams are crucial to protect your oral health.
Composite fillings protect your teeth
Composite fillings are a tooth-colored resin used in cavity treatment. When Dr. Patton spots signs of tooth decay on your x-rays, he can restore your smile with discrete fillings that blend in with the rest of your teeth seamlessly. First, he will need to remove the decay with a dental drill. Once the area is sanitized, he will use the filling to rebuild the part of your tooth destroyed by decay and harden it with a curing light. After the cavity is filled, he can shape the material to restore the natural look of your tooth.
Your mouth will be numbed with a local anesthetic for a pain-free experience that can be finished in as little as 15 minutes. Composite fillings provide a durable restoration that can last for years, and regular preventive care can prevent further cavities from developing. Contact our office in Columbia today at (573) 875-7040 to learn more about how we can restore your oral health.