Amalgam fillings have been the center of controversy, when it comes to their mercury content, for years. On rare occasions, some people have even had allergic reactions to these fillings whereas with composite resin fillings there are no metallic elements.

Composite fillings are a mixture of glass or quartz filler in a resin medium that produces a tooth coloured filling. This type of filling provides good durability and resistance to fracture in small to mid-sized restorations that need to withstand moderate chewing pressure. Less tooth structure is removed when the dentist prepares the tooth and this may result in a smaller filling than that of an amalgam. Composite fillings are very aesthetic and virtually blend in with the tooth.

Root Canal

Root Canal Therapy can save a tooth whose nerves and blood supply have been affected. Years ago, the only solution to diseased or damaged teeth was to remove them. This treatment usually requires a couple of office visits to clean and sterilize inside the tooth. Tiny files are used to remove the diseased nerve tissue smoothing and shaping the insides of the root canals in preparation for filling them.

Frequent flushing with an antibacterial solution sterilizes the inside of the tooth. Once this is done and the tooth is free of infection, the canals and pulp chamber are sealed preventing bacteria from re-entering the tooth. Over time the tooth will probably require protection by placing a crown.