Tooth Fillings Morrisville
Tooth Fillings Morrisville 
At Alliance Dentistry in Cary, NC, we believe that maintaining optimal oral health is crucial to a happy and confident smile. When dental problems arise, such as cavities or minor tooth damage, tooth fillings become a valuable restorative solution. In this informative guide, we will delve into what tooth fillings are, why they are necessary, and how our experienced team at Alliance Dentistry can help preserve your smile with this simple yet effective procedure.
What Are Tooth Fillings?
Tooth fillings are dental restorations used to repair teeth that have been affected by decay, small fractures, or other minor damages. The filling material is applied to the affected area of the tooth to restore its shape, function, and strength. This prevents further deterioration and protects the tooth from more extensive damage or potential tooth loss.
Why Are Tooth Fillings Necessary?
- Cavities: Dental cavities, also known as caries or decay, occur when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode the tooth’s enamel, creating small holes or cavities. Filling these cavities helps halt the progression of decay and restores the tooth’s integrity.
- Fractures and Chips: Teeth can suffer minor fractures or chips due to accidents, biting on hard objects, or grinding. Filling the affected areas prevents further damage and strengthens the tooth.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity caused by exposed dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) can be addressed with tooth fillings. The filling material acts as a barrier, reducing sensitivity and discomfort.
- Preventing Tooth Loss: Early intervention with tooth fillings can prevent the need for more invasive procedures, such as dental crowns or root canals, which may be necessary if the decay or damage progresses.
Types of Tooth Fillings:
- Composite Fillings: Made of a mixture of plastic and glass, composite fillings are tooth-colored restorations that blend seamlessly with natural teeth. They are a popular choice for their aesthetics and versatility.
- Amalgam Fillings: Also known as silver fillings, amalgam fillings are made of a combination of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They are strong and durable, making them suitable for use in back teeth.
- Ceramic Fillings: Ceramic fillings, also called porcelain fillings, are tooth-colored restorations made from high-quality dental ceramics. They are well-suited for restoring front teeth due to their natural appearance.
Why Choose Alliance Dentistry for Tooth Fillings in Cary, NC?
- Expert Dental Care: Our skilled dentists have vast experience in providing tooth fillings, ensuring precise and effective restorations.
- Patient Comfort: At Alliance Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort and well-being during every procedure, ensuring a relaxed and stress-free dental experience.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We use advanced dental technology and high-quality filling materials to ensure the longevity and success of your dental restorations.
- Personalized Approach: Our team takes the time to understand your specific dental needs and goals, tailoring treatment plans that best suit you.
Are you familiar with xylitol? It is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol, usually processed from birch trees and corn cobs, that has gained attention as a sugar substitute—and potentially a dental hygiene game-changer. You might wonder how anything sweet can improve your oral health and help you avoid tooth fillings in Morrisville, North Carolina. Here are some facts about xylitol.
Xylitol May Prevent Cavities
Dental caries (cavities) are the result of Streptococcus mutans, one of the many oral bacteria living in the human mouth. They also mean a trip to the dentist for tooth fillings in Morrisville. This bacteria feeds on the sugar you eat, and it produces acid that can erode tooth enamel and contribute to cavities, plaque production, gum disease, decay, and eventually tooth loss. Although xylitol is a sugar alcohol, bacteria can’t digest it. Instead of being broken down to create acid, xylitol can actually raise the pH of the mouth. An alkaline oral cavity limits the growth of bacteria. When the pH is alkaline, calcium and phosphate salts found in the saliva start to move into the weak parts of the enamel, thus fortifying it. The softened, calcium-deficient enamel areas begin to harden.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the daily amount of xylitol consumed should fall within a range of three to eight grams and be taken throughout the day for maximum benefits and to help reduce the need for tooth fillings in Morrisville.
Although there are scientific reasons why xylitol can fight cavities, clinical studies showing that xylitol reduces cavities are difficult to perform, and research has come to varied conclusions.
More Facts About Xylitol
Xylitol is typically found in the following products:
- Gum
- Mints and candies
- Granulated
- Syrups
Xylitol is not sugar-free, although it is a reduced-calorie sweetener, contains 40% fewer calories than sugar and 75% fewer carbohydrates. Although it has a low glycemic index, it may still affect blood glucose levels, so diabetics should use it only under the care of their physician.
Xylitol pulls water into the intestinal tract (as do many sugars), which can lead to bloating, gas, and diarrhea. People who already suffer from these conditions, like those with IBS, should probably avoid it. If it is introduced into the diet slowly, for over a week or more, the digestive tract may have an easier time acclimating to it.
Xylitol can be hazardous for pets! According to the ASPCA, xylitol can be dangerous for dogs, causing low blood sugar and liver injury. It likely does not cause serious problems in cats or ferrets.
If you are looking for an alternative to refined sugar, xylitol may be a good option. However, it is still highly processed using a multi-step chemical reaction and may be derived from questionably healthy genetically-modified corn. As more research and trials study its effects, more light will continue to be shed on its efficacy for oral hygiene and the reduction of tooth fillings in Morrisville.
Some dentists feel they have a responsibility to educate their patients on trending topics. However, regular visits to your dentist are still a priority, as is a healthy diet and maintaining a daily routine of brushing and flossing. To find out more, contact Alliance Dentistry to schedule an appointment, especially if you are in need of tooth fillings Morrisville families sometimes have to deal with.
Contact Our Morrisville Tooth Fillings Dentist
Tooth fillings are a simple yet essential dental procedure that can save your teeth from further damage and decay, preserving your beautiful smile for years to come. At Alliance Dentistry in Cary, NC, our experienced team is dedicated to providing top-notch dental care, including tooth fillings, in a comfortable and compassionate environment. If you suspect cavities or minor tooth damage, schedule a consultation with us today to maintain your oral health and achieve a confident, healthy smile.