While here at TNT Dental Care our number one priority is prevention of tooth decay, almost everyone needs restorative dentistry at some point in their life. Therefore, we’re committed to providing the best restorative care using the latest techniques. Scheduled hygiene visits allow us to monitor your oral health and act quickly on any decay, preventing  future costly treatments. Tooth decay can result in pain and impact our quality of life.

• Fillings: After the decay is removed, a restorative material needs to be placed in order to repair the function, structure, and overall integrity of the tooth. Your dentist will recommend the best material for your tooth, taking into consideration the location and size of the cavity as well as the location of the tooth. Material options include composite, amalgam, and in certain situations, glass ionomers. Fillings are also used to repair cracked or broken teeth.

Types of Fillings:

• Resin-based composite fillings can often be used as an alternative to traditional metal fillings and offer a very natural looking smile. After the decay is removed, the area is prepared for bonding by cleaning it of bacteria and debris. If the decay is deep and is near the root, a liner is placed to protect the nerve. A special bonding agent is used, the material is then added in layers and light cured.  Placing composite fillings requires more time in the dental chair and more work for the dentist, and thus is more costly than amalgam but all of our patients are pleased with the results.
• Amalgam fillings have been used in dentistry for over 150 years. When the metals in the amalgam are mixed together, they form a soft material that can then be used to repair your tooth. Once the material is placed and shaped, it takes several hours for it to harden.

In some cases, however, depending on the extent of the tooth decay or damage, the affected tooth may require additional or alternative procedures such as crowns, extractions, and/or root canals.

Please contact TNT Dental care at 617-923-0088 if you have any questions or concerns.