When you’ve got tooth decay, whether it’s minor or major, fillings can be a highly effective way to save your tooth. The highly skilled dentists at Rifkin Dental in Yorktown Heights and Carmel, New York, offer a variety of fillings, including amalgam and tooth-colored ones, depending on your needs. To learn more, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.
Fillings are the most common treatment for cavities. Usually, your dentist identifies cavities during your biannual exam or after taking X-rays, though sometimes you may notice the cavity yourself as they can show up as small dark spots on your teeth. Regardless of the size of your cavities, a filling is usually the best solution.
Rifkin Dental offers two types of fillings, amalgam and composite resin:
Your dentist at Rifkin Dental can help you decide whether amalgam or composite resin is the best option for you.
If your tooth is very fragile due to significant decay, a root canal may be the best way to save your tooth. During a root canal, your dentist at Rifkin Dental removes all the damaged tooth pulp and packs the tooth with gutta-percha, a sterile material. Then, your dentist covers the tooth with a crown to protect it.
Both composite resin and amalgam fillings need some time to set properly, generally taking 24-48 hours. Until your filling is set, use caution when you eat and drink. Stay away from very hard or crunchy foods and don't drink very hot or cold beverages for a couple of days, just to be on the safe side.
If you’ve noticed a dark spot on your tooth or have been experiencing tooth pain you think could be a cavity, the gentle and experienced dentists at Rifkin Dental can help. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.