If you’ve had to treat a cavity in the past, there’s a good chance you may have received an amalgam, or silver, dental filling, which has been the most popular dental filling choice for over a century. Comprised of a mixture of tin, silver, copper, zinc, and liquid mercury, along with other trace metals, amalgam fillings help reinforce a tooth that’s been compromised by a cavity. While effective, metal fillings can shine conspicuously when you smile, and as metal, they can change shape under the extreme temperatures of hot/cold food and beverages. White fillings from your Rochester cosmetic dentist can more effectively restore the health of your tooth while simultaneously maintaining its natural beauty.
The Purpose of a Filling
A cavity is a small hole that forms in your tooth as infectious decay rots away its structure. The longer it’s left untreated, the larger a cavity will grow. In extreme cases, decay can completely consume the tooth, forcing your dentist to remove it to stop the spread of infection. Before your situation grows so dire, Dr. Calcagno can remove the infected tooth structure, thoroughly clean the cavity, and fill it with a manmade filling material to reinforce the weakened tooth. Ideally, a dental filling should seal the tooth’s interior and protect it from bacteria to prevent infection from reforming. When metal fillings expand and contract, they can create spaces between the filling and the tooth, allowing bacteria to squeeze through and reach the inside of the tooth.
The Beauty of Composite Resin
Tooth-colored composite resin is an innovative material that can be tinted to the specific color of your natural tooth. The material can also be bonded to the tooth’s structure, creating a tight seal between the filling and the tooth. Known as tooth-colored fillings, or white fillings, composite resin restorations are indistinguishable from your natural tooth, and significantly reduce the chances of reinfection. For improved success, and to avoid the complications of metal amalgam, Dr. Calcagno only places white fillings to restore our patients’ smiles. If you already have one or more amalgam fillings, speak with Dr. Calcagno about replacing them with more effective, tooth-colored composite resin.
About Dr. Calcagno:
Dr. Gilly Calcagno is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Minnesota Dental Association, and is active in local dental implant study clubs. To schedule a consultation, call Calcagno Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry today at (507) 281-3659.
