Fillings

Come to Sterling Ridge Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in The Woodlands, TX, when you need a tooth filling. The quality of your tooth fillings is important to your oral health, just as much as other dental treatments. Because cavities are so common, you may think that tooth fillings are no big deal. But the tooth filling treatment quality is essential for long-term dental health.

The Purpose of Having a Tooth Filled

Tooth fillings are used to repair the tooth when there’s a cavity. The tooth filling needs to fulfill three purposes:

• Esthetics – The appearance of the tooth should be restored
• Protection – Inner layers of the tooth, bone, and gums need to be protected from bacteria in the mouth
• The function of the tooth – The ability of the tooth to perform in terms of chewing, etc., needs to be restored

Types of Dental Fillings

There are several types of filling materials available from your dentist in The Woodlands, TX, including:

Amalgam fillings

These consist of a compound of metals. They’re the most commonly used. Typically, these are silver in color and quite visible in the mouth.

Composite fillings

These are more natural tooth fillings that are comprised of a tooth-colored resin. These are typically used in areas of the mouth that are more visible

Gold fillings

Less commonly used, these are made of gold alloy. They’re more for patients with large cavities or who have a strong bite.

Inlays and Onlays

Finally, inlays and onlays are another filling treatment your dentist can do if the situation warrants it. These are mostly used for cavities that involve the cusps of the tooth.

They’re actually made in a dental lab and then cemented into place by your dentist. The difference between inlays and outlays is that inlays are fitted inside the tooth, and onlays are fitted over the cusp of the tooth.

Quality Fillings Are Essential

The quality of the filling material and the expertise of your dentist doing the fillings in The Woodlands, TX, is essential. Fillings need to last for years. The only way to ensure that they will last and fulfill all their purposes is to work with a quality dentist. Contact Sterling Ridge Cosmetic & Family Dentistry in The Woodlands, TX, to book your appointment.