Prevent Cavities from Progressing with Natural-looking Composite Fillings
Finding out from your dentist that you have a cavity can be frustrating, especially if you take good care of your smile. The good news? Cavities are easily treatable with dental fillings in Austin, Texas. At Blunn Creek Family Dentistry, we offer composite dental fillings to repair dental issues without leaving embarrassing evidence of dental work.
How does a cavity form?
A cavity begins long before you ever see or feel a visible hole in your tooth. Every day, a thin, sticky film of bacteria (dental plaque) forms on your teeth. When you eat or drink sugary or starchy foods, the harmful bacteria in plaque feed on those leftover particles. When these sugars are metabolized, they generate acid as a byproduct.
That acid is the real troublemaker. Repeated exposure gradually wears down your enamel. Eventually, the surface gives in, forming a small hole. That hole is what we recognize as a cavity. Once a cavity forms, it is not reversible. Without treatment, it can grow deeper and may reach the centermost layer of the tooth (the pulp). At this stage, your tooth requires a root canal to avoid extraction.
What is the process of getting a dental filling?
The procedure is quick and comfortable. After examining your tooth, Dr. Mary will numb your gums with local anesthetics to ensure a comfortable dental experience. Then, the tooth is prepared by removing the decayed portion, leaving a small area that will be filled by a composite restoration.
Next, the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to remove all traces of harmful bacteria. Then, we apply a composite filling in layers and sculpt it to the desired shape. The next step is to harden the material with a special light, creating a durable restoration to withstand daily use.
As a final step, Dr. Mary will polish your filled tooth, giving a similar sheen to the rest of the smile. Once completed, your treated tooth will look and feel like new.
Why are composite fillings preferred to amalgam fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings not only repair damage but also restore your tooth’s aesthetics and strength with near-perfect results. The benefits include:
- Aesthetically appealing outcomes: Resin-based fillings blend seamlessly with your enamel for a beautiful, natural-looking appearance.
- Minimally invasive procedure: Composite fillings require less removal of healthy tooth structure, preserving more of your natural tooth.
- Durable outcomes: Modern composite materials are strong and designed to withstand everyday chewing forces..
- Safety: Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings are created with safe, biocompatible materials.
- Better bond: The material chemically bonds to your tooth, which protects your tooth from further damage and infections.
How much does a dental filling cost in Austin, Texas?
The cost depends on the size of the cavity and the tooth’s location. Our office will share a cost breakdown during your consultation. We’ll also help make your dental care affordable with insurance and our in-house membership plan.
Do you need a dental filling near Austin, Texas?
Your teeth may be the hardest substance in your body, but they are not indestructible. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several solutions to repair tooth damage. Do you have a cavity or a crack in a tooth? At Blunn Creek Family Dentistry, we offer tooth-colored fillings to restore your smile with durable, realistic outcomes. Call (512) 788-9282 and schedule your appointment today!
