A tooth filling in Oceanside is a type of dental procedure that involves filling a cavity that has formed in a tooth. There are various materials that can be used for this purpose, including gold; porcelain; silver amalgam (which is mercury mixed with silver, tin, and copper); tooth-colored plastic and material called composite resin; and glass ionomer cement, which contains calcium hydroxide and releases fluoride that helps prevent further decay. Each of these has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages, and an Oceanside dentist will recommend the best material for each patient based on their current oral health, dental history, cost, and insurance coverage.
Before a tooth filling in Oceanside can be completed, the area will be cleaned and prepped. This step is important as it removes bacteria, plaque, and any food particles from the area in Oceanside. It also allows the dentist to check for any cracks or breaks that may need repair. After the area is cleaned, a bonding agent will be applied to the tooth and then treated with a special curing light to set it. This will allow the dentist to apply the composite resin and shape it properly.
After the composite resin has been shaped, it will be hardened with additional light beams and possibly a special tool. This will make it hard and able to resist future cavities. The dentist in Oceanside will then trim off any excess composite material with a tool like a drill or sandpaper.
Lastly, the dentist in Oceanside will polish and finish the tooth to make sure that it looks natural and feels smooth in the mouth. The dentist can also add a sealant to the tooth for further protection.
What Is the Best Tooth Filling in Oceanside?
The best type of tooth filling in Oceanside is the one that will match your existing teeth and look the most natural. This will require the least amount of work and money on the part of the dentist in Oceanside. However, a dentist will consider the location and extent of the tooth decay, your insurance coverage, and cost when recommending a type of filling for you.
A good choice for front teeth in Oceanside is composite resin. These are made from durable plastic compounds and are a great option for patients who want a more natural-looking tooth. However, this type of tooth filling in Oceanside is not as long-lasting as other types of tooth filling and should only be used on small to medium cavities.
Another popular and safe type of tooth filling in Oceanside is a porcelain inlay or onlay. These are fabricated in a laboratory from ceramic materials that can be matched to the existing teeth in color and texture. They are a good alternative to traditional metal fillings but they can be more expensive.
A final type of tooth filling in Oceanside that can be used in larger cavities is a silver amalgam. This is a durable and cost-effective alternative to other types of tooth fillings but can be more sensitive to wear and tear. In addition, the material can also be more prone to fracturing and need to be replaced more often than other types of tooth fillings.
Grace Dental provides various high-quality dental services from basic preventive to aesthetic and surgical services. Call us at (760) 653-8338 and schedule your consultation with us!