Beyond Composite and Amalgam Fillings?

/in , /by

When you think of dental fillings in Jacksonville, FL, you probably imagine the usual silver amalgam or the white tooth-colored composite, right? It’s no wonder. They’ve been around for many decades. But did you know there are newer, safer, and more natural options out there? If you’re looking for something long-lasting and better for your health, it might be time to explore biocompatible fillings.

The Downside of Traditional Fillings

Sure, amalgam is tough. That’s why it’s been the go-to filling for so long. Unfortunately, amalgam contains mercury. And that’s a problem! As for composite, it looks better, but some types of composites still include resins or materials that might not sit well with everyone’s body. If you’ve got sensitivities or just want to play it safe, these might not be your ideal options.

So, what should you do?

What Are Biocompatible Filling Materials?

Think of biocompatible fillings as the gentle giants of restorative dentistry in Jacksonville, FL. They’re strong, safe, and designed to work in harmony with your body. Options like glass ionomer cement release fluoride and bond naturally to your tooth. And newer ceramic inlays and bioactive resins help rebuild tooth structure. So, they don’t just patch a problem. They help your teeth heal and stay strong. Kind of like a smart Band-Aid for your smile.

If you’re curious about biocompatible dental fillings, talk with your dentist in Jacksonville, FL.

Who Should Consider Biocompatible Fillings?

Anyone, really. However, biocompatible fillings are especially great for people with autoimmune issues. Or people who just have a desire to take a more holistic route to their dental care. Parents love them for their kids. Health-conscious folks swear by them.

Are You Looking for a Reputable Dentist in Jacksonville, FL?

Ready to upgrade your dental care? We’d love to help! Please Contact Dr. Matt Henry today and schedule a visit. Ask our dental team about biocompatible fillings. You and your smile deserve the best!

A dentist wearing gloves and a mask examines a patient who is reclining in a dental chair in a brightly lit clinic.

What Happens When You Get a Filling for Tooth Decay?

/in /by

Are you suffering from tooth decay? Fillings help treat this condition, providing protection from further decay and restoring tooth functionality. Our dentist in Jacksonville, FL, at Dr. Matt Henry offers this treatment option for decayed teeth. Let’s explore what you can expect when you come in for a dental filling.

Administer Local Anesthesia

The filling process is an invasive one so we ensure you don’t feel anything during it. We administer a local anesthetic to numb your gums and teeth in the affected area.

Remove Damaged Portions

When the anesthetic kicks in, we use a drill to remove the decayed parts of your teeth. This prevents decay from getting worse and affecting the entire tooth.

Clean the Affected Teeth

Once the decayed portions are gone, we clean the inside and outside of your teeth. This helps ensure that these surfaces are free of bacteria that can cause additional decay or infections.

Place Fillings

After cleaning your teeth, it’s time to add fillings. Depending on what option you choose, we’ll use metal or composite fillings to restore your teeth. Metal is more durable, while composite looks more like natural teeth.

Polish and Finish Up

The last step involves polishing the affected teeth and making sure the fillings are securely in place. We’ll also give you advice on how to care for your fillings to keep them in good condition.

Visit Us for Dental Fillings

Do you have decayed teeth that need treatment? At Dr. Matt Henry, our dentist offers fillings in Jacksonville, FL, to restore these teeth and protect them from additional damage. We can help you choose the right filling material based on cost, tooth location, and other factors.

Woman with long curly hair wearing a white shirt holds her cheek and appears to be in pain, suggesting a toothache or facial discomfort, against a plain white background.

How Can I Tell If My Filling Fell Out?

/0 Comments/in /by

Fillings last a long time, but not forever. After many years of use, fillings can fall out. When this happens, it’s important to get help from your dentist in Jacksonville, FL. The professionals at Dr. Matt Henry can help. First, you’ll have to recognize the signs that your filling has fallen out.

Signs Your Filling Fell Out

If your filling falls out, you may notice several signs of a problem. Some examples:

  1. Sudden pain. You may feel sudden pain in your tooth. This can happen any time after a filling falls out because, without your filling, your tooth is vulnerable.
  2. Sensitivity to heat and cold. Your tooth may feel sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures after your filling falls out. Although everyone feels some sensitivity to heat and cold in their teeth, this will be sharper than usual and contained to one part of your mouth.
  3. Hole in the tooth. When you run your tongue around your tooth, you may feel a hole there or a rough surface that didn’t used to be there.
  4. Food gets caught there. More food may get caught in your tooth than usual, because there is an exposed hole in your mouth.
  5. Feel the filling. You may actually feel the filling when it falls out. You may accidentally bite down on the filling.

What Should You Do If You’re Missing a Filling?

If you’re missing a filling, get help from your dentist. A missing filling can leave your tooth vulnerable to tooth decay and infection. At Dr. Matt Henry, we offer composite and amalgam cavity fillings in Jacksonville, FL. We can help you decide which type of filling is best for you. Call today to make your dental appointment.