Why Tooth Fillings (and Cavities) Are So Common
Some oral health concerns develop because non-preventable issues, such as congenital malformations of certain oral structures, or the misalignment of your teeth. Others might seem to be unpreventable because they occur so commonly, but are actually the result of things that could be prevented with consistently good care. Cavities, which are the product of tooth decay, are often the latter kind of issue. Though they may be highly preventable, cavities can occur frequently enough to make them seem almost inevitable. Because of this, tooth fillings designed to treat cavities are just as common, and in many cases, they can help stop a cavity in its tracks and preserve the rest of your tooth’s healthy, natural structure.
Cavities form easier than you might think
Tooth decay and cavities are preventable, but the factors that cause them to develop are so natural that consistently preventing them can be more challenging than it seems. Tooth decay is a condition that involves the gradual erosion of your tooth enamel and, eventually, the main structure of your tooth. This is caused by an overabundance of plaque and tartar on your teeth surfaces, which are comprised mainly of different types of oral bacteria. These bacteria consistently attack and weaken your tooth enamel, and if they do so faster than your teeth can remineralize the enamel, then decay will set in and cause a cavity to form in the tooth structure.
Tooth fillings treat mild cavities conveniently
The fact that cavities can develop so easily makes treating them with tooth fillings important, but advanced techniques, technologies, and dental materials make the entire process more convenient than ever. For example, many modern tooth fillings are made from a highly biocompatible material known as composite resin, which is crafted from a mix of finely ground acrylic and quartz-like particles. The resin is customized to match the appearance of the natural tooth structure around it, and can also conform to the cavity’s shape precisely.
The advantages of tooth-colored fillings
The natural appearance of a tooth-colored filling helps make filling a cavity a much more discreet process than you might expect. Yet, the benefits of tooth-colored fillings include more than preserving the tooth’s appearance. Because cavities and tooth decay occur from the buildup of bacteria, it’s important to protect a cavity-stricken tooth from becoming re-infected after a filling has been placed. Tooth-colored composite resin can be securely bonded to the tooth structure around it, helping to provide a more effective and reliable solution for restoring the tooth.
Learn more about cavities and tooth fillings
Tooth fillings are common partly because cavities can occur so frequently, but also because modern fillings are often more discreet and convenient to receive than patients expect. To learn more, call our Cleveland Family Dentistry office in Cleveland, TX, today at (281) 592-1234. We also serve the residents of Kingwood, Conroe, Livingston, and all surrounding communities.