Composite
What Is It: A tooth-colored restorative material that is used to replace decayed or affected tooth structure.
Procedure Description: A very common procedure in dentistry, fillings or restorations are completed when decay or affected tooth structure is removed from the tooth and composites are bonded to allow for proper morphology and function of the tooth.
Why You Would Need It: We use this treatment to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and the remaining tooth will be filled with a composite filling to restore function and strength of tooth.
Amalgam
What Is It: Now often thought of as an outdated restoration, amalgams still serve a purpose in dentistry, often used where contaminants (saliva) can’t be controlled.
Procedure Description: The procedure is somewhat similar to composite restoration preparations, but it does require a greater bulk of material and a larger and more defined preparation outline.
Why You Would Need It: This treatment is used when there is a high risk of tooth decay or large tooth preparations and when it is difficult for other materials, such as resins, to establish a bond due to moisture.
Glass Ionomer
What Is It: Because of its good adhesion to tooth structure, this restoration can be used in spots where fluoride release is helpful, as that is what the material does.
Procedure Description: Similar to resin restorations, glass ionomer can be placed in areas without large tooth removal and often serves to release fluoride in areas like the cervical (where the tooth meets the gingival tissue) to prevent decay or sensitivity.
Why You Would Need It: This treatment is used for minor temporary dental work and work needing to be done on the root surfaces below the gumline.