Tooth-Colored Fillings in Encino, CA

Dental cavities are a common problem that develop when bacteria eats away at your enamel. Previously, cavities were treated with an amalgam material, a mixture of metals including mercury or silver. We now know that these fillings don't fuse fully with the enamel and the mercury may be hazardous to your general health. At The Dental Office Encino, licensed dentists Drs. Alan and Yonatan Howard use tooth-colored fillings made with a composite resin to fill cavities and protect the tooth. Drs. Howard and Howard can also take out metal fillings and apply composite resin fillings for a more reliable and more attractive treatment for cavities at their office in Encino, CA.

Tooth-colored fillings seal the area of decay in the enamel once it's been cleaned out by Dr. Alan or Yonatan Howard. Composite resin is a useful material that may be used to correct other concerns with your teeth, such as chips or wear on the enamel by bruxism (teeth grinding). Since the material is tinted to blend with your teeth, fillings may be placed on the back and front teeth for a great result. If you have amalgam fillings, talk to Dr. Howard about getting them taken out and replaced with composite resin.

Receiving a filling with composite resin at The Dental Office Encino is generally a quick treatment. The treatment area will be numbed to help you feel more comfortable. Stronger sedation methods may be considered for any anxieties or fears to keep you relaxed. As soon as you're ready, the infected enamel can be treated using a special drill that Dr. Howard will choose based upon the location of the cavity and the amount of decay. Once the enamel is cleared away and the area is disinfected, the cavity will be replaced with the composite resin material. Dr. Howard will then smooth the composite resin so it matches the texture of your other teeth.

You will be able to get back to your day once your tooth-colored filling is complete, but you may notice a sensitivity to extreme temperatures for several days. You can use nonprescription pain medicine to minimize discomfort or inflammation; however, you shouldn't experience any serious problems. If your filling seems uneven or high, please call us. Your filling should be cleaned by following a regular home care routine that includes daily flossing and brushing. When you return for your annual dental examination, Dr. Howard will check your filling to determine if it should be replaced or repaired.

Composite resin fillings are a standard treatment for dental cavities, they are typically covered in part by insurance. A team member will talk to your dental insurance company to understand your coverage so we can calculate your out-of-pocket costs. If you don't have dental insurance, Dr. Howard will talk about the payment methods we accept at your appointment, plus information on medical financing.

Cavities in the teeth may begin as a small problem, but it is crucial to have them addressed before they develop into a more expensive concern. At The Dental Office Encino, cavities may be addressed with dental fillings. Drs. Howard and Howard make sure to match the shade of your teeth so you can have a healthy, beautiful smile. If you think you or your child has tooth decay, contact us to schedule a dental examination with Dr. Alan or Yonatan Howard in Encino, CA.