News

Restorations (Fillings)

Advances in modern dental materials and techniques increasingly offer new ways to create more pleasing natural looking smiles. Researchers are continuing their work to develop esthetic materials such as ceramic and plastic compounds that mimic the appearance of natural teeth. As a result, dentists and patients have several choices when selecting materials used to repair missing, worn, damaged, or decayed teeth.

Deciding which type of restoration is appropriate depends on how much decay is present in the tooth. Teeth that have cracked, fractured, have large amalgam fillings, or have large areas of decay most likely need to be restored by an onlay or crown. Dental crowns are best utilized as a way to improve the cosmetic appearance of a tooth when the tooth is seriously compromised, such as restoring a tooth to its original shape (repairing a broken tooth) or strengthening a tooth (covering over a tooth which has a large filling).

Teeth that have lesser amounts of decay may be able to be restored by having a resin material placed (most commonly known as a “filling”). Restorations that are similar in color to your natural teeth are made of a plastic dental resin and are strong, durable, and make for a very natural looking smile.

The procedure, which generally takes about an hour, will require the placement of a rubber dam over the tooth. Dr. Hopgood will apply a topical anesthetic and inject a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. After the area is numb, the doctor will gain access to the tooth and excavate the decay. The decay is removed by a traditional dental drill, air abrasion, or a dental laser (depending on the severity). Once the decay is removed, the filling material is applied in thin layers, and slowly built up to restore the height and width of your tooth. A curing light is used to harden each layer before the next is applied. When the restoration is completed, Dr. Hopgood will make any necessary adjustments to your tooth and bite and polish the tooth for a beautiful natural look.

Advanced Dental Concepts
Richard D. Hopgood D.M.D., M.A.G.D.
296 Lowell Street
Andover, MA 01810
Telephone: 978-475-2431
Email: info@andoverdmd.com