How we treat cavities to restore damaged teeth with metal-free fillings

Absolute Dental Care strives to prevent tooth loss. Dental decay, periodontal (gum) disease, and other oral conditions are progressive. They can often be prevented with consistent care at home and visits to our office in Nixa, Missouri. Restorative dentistry may be necessary when hygiene changes are insufficient to prevent, halt, or reverse damage to the teeth. 

Fillings represent a type of dental restoration. They are more conservative than inlays, onlays, and full dental crowns. Dr. Todd Anderson can design and apply fillings to repair many cavities. As decay progresses, the process erodes tooth structure. So, cavities are literally holes in the tooth where the structure has been eroded. 

Our approach to cavity treatment 

A filling is appropriate for most cavities. If a cavity is particularly large or deep, then other options, such as inlays, onlays, or crowns, may be recommended instead. 

All treatments start by administering localized anesthetic for utmost comfort. So you won’t feel any pressure or discomfort during treatment. 

Dentists have many materials to choose from to replace the lost tissue and rebuild the tooth. Dr. Anderson prefers to use metal-free dental composite materials that can be color-matched to blend in with the surrounding tooth structure and the neighboring teeth. 

It is highly biocompatible, making it an appropriate option for patients with metals sensitivities or concerns over adverse reactions to “silver” fillings. Silver-colored fillings are made from mercury and an amalgam of metals such as tin, copper, and silver.

White-colored composite fillings preserve maximal tooth structure. They also support patients’ long-term oral health, healthy function, and smile esthetics. 

Dr. Anderson applies the composite material to the “prepared” treatment site. The decayed area or cavity is fully cleaned and reshaped. This step provides a clean slate for your improved and rebuilt tooth. The composite is carefully layered until the cavity is filled and the tooth fully and properly restored. 

As a finishing touch, we harden the material to ensure the strongest bond between the filling and the tooth. Precise refinements or adjustments are made as needed, and the tooth is polished to enhance its dazzling shine. 

Schedule your check-up today!

Fillings secured at Absolute Dental Care can last a lifetime without further treatment as long as you maintain good home care and regular visits to our office. Call (417) 815-6797 to book your appointment today.

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