What happens when you develop a cavity? Without treatment, the decay may spread and eventually lead to an abscessed or infected tooth. At this point, the tooth may even require extraction to prevent the spread of infection. Fortunately, your Astoria dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, can address tooth decay in the early stages with a tooth-colored filling. In today’s blog, Dr. Leibowitz explains how composite fillings provide natural looking restoration.
How Do I Know If I Need a Filling?
Tooth decay occurs when the layers of tooth structure beneath the outer enamel become exposed to bacteria. Injury and poor oral hygiene can both weaken enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. Symptoms of a cavity include:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Toothaches
- Sharp pain when biting down or chewing
Composite Fillings
If you experience any of these symptoms on a regular basis, contact your Astoria NY cosmetic dentist right away. Dr. Leibowitz will begin by examining your tooth. If he discovers decay, he may prescribe a filling. Made from composite resin, our fillings can be shaded to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
Placing the Fillings
The procedure typically begins with the administration of local anesthetic. Dr. Leibowitz will then remove the decay and gently etch the surrounding portion of the tooth. This allows the filling to adhere to the tooth. Next, he will apply several thin layers of filling material and cure it using a special light. As the material cures, Dr. Leibowitz will sculpt the tooth. Finally, he will polish your tooth to ensure your newly restored tooth looks completely natural. For cases of advanced decay, Dr. Leibowitz may recommend a dental crown in lieu of composite fillings.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Astoria NY Cosmetic Dentist
Do you suffer from one or more symptoms of tooth decay? If so, you may benefit from an esthetically pleasing composite filling. To learn more about our cosmetic and restorative treatments, talk to your Astoria NY cosmetic dentist today. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Leibowitz by calling our 11106 dentist’s office today at (718) 728-8320. We proudly serve patients from Astoria, Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the surrounding communities.
