4283 Raleigh Millington Rd, Memphis, TN 38128
Discreet and Durable Tooth Fillings
We offer tooth-colored dental fillings as a solution for treating cavities and repairing cracked or broken teeth. We understand the importance of a confident smile, and our tooth-colored fillings are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a more aesthetic and natural-looking result compared to traditional metal fillings. Maintaining good dental health throughout your life involves daily care of your teeth and gums, along with regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, as recommended by the American Dental Association.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
When extraction is determined to be the best course of action, your dentist may perform the procedure during a regular visit or schedule a separate appointment. Understanding the process can ease any concerns you may have. Each tooth's root is nestled within a "tooth socket" in your jawbone and held in place by a ligament. To extract a tooth, our dentists carefully expand the socket and separate the tooth from this ligament. While typically a quick procedure, we encourage you to discuss any anxieties or preferences for sedation with your doctor to ensure a relaxed experience. Following a tooth extraction, neighboring teeth can sometimes shift, potentially affecting chewing and jaw joint function. To prevent these complications, Dr. McAuley may recommend replacing the extracted tooth with a bridge or dental implant.
The Benefits of Choosing Tooth-Colored Fillings
While amalgam (metal) fillings have been used traditionally, their noticeable appearance can be a significant drawback for many patients. Metal fillings can be visible when you smile and may even cause a dark gray stain on the tooth over time. Additionally, some individuals may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions to the metals used in amalgam fillings. Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite or white fillings, offer a more aesthetically pleasing and often a less invasive treatment option. The composite resin used in these fillings bonds directly to the tooth structure, effectively sealing out bacteria and helping to prevent future decay. Unlike metal fillings, tooth-colored fillings typically require less removal of healthy enamel, allowing for greater preservation of your natural tooth.
The Tooth-Colored Filling Procedure at Dove Family Dentistry
Following the placement of your tooth-colored filling, it is common for the treated area to remain numb for a few hours as the local anesthetic wears off. Once the numbness subsides, you may experience mild to moderate tenderness and sensitivity on the newly filled tooth. Some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, as well as slight soreness when chewing, is also normal during the first week or two after the procedure. Tenderness at the injection site is also possible. If any discomfort or sensitivity persists for longer than two weeks, please do not hesitate to contact our office at Dove Family Dentistry - Raleigh. Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities.