What are Ultrasonic Dental Fillings?

When you have a cavity, bacteria grow within your teeth. As the bacteria react to the air, the infection multiplies. When dentists use older technology to fill cavities, they often trap some air bubbles within the filling. Unfortunately, these small errors can increase your likelihood of more cavities in the future.

On the other hand, ultrasonic technology allows us to fill your cavity while vibrating the filling material. In turn, there is less cause for error. For example, the vibrations don’t trap small air bubbles in your new tooth-colored filling.

What to Expect with Cavity Fillings

When you visit us for a cavity filling, you should expect to be at our office for about an hour. Though the procedure is fairly quick, we want you to understand the process and get the best treatment possible. Therefore, we will plan time to answer your questions and discuss your treatment.

If you have a larger cavity, we may take x-rays or tooth scans prior to the procedure in order to best navigate your smile. However, in most cases, we can see your cavity and fill it without scanning your teeth.

The Procedure

First, we will numb your teeth and gums surrounding the cavity. Your dentist will use a numbing gel, shot, or a combination of both to lessen your discomfort. Next, your dentist will begin removing the decay and cleaning your tooth. Once we prepare your tooth, we will fill your cavity with ultrasonic tooth-colored fillings.

Most patients will be able to leave the dentist’s office directly after their appointment since we don’t use general anesthesia unless requested. Though you will be able to eat immediately after your filling, we advise using caution since your mouth will remain numb for a few hours.

Replacing Your Metal Fillings

In the past, dentists used amalgam, or metal fillings, to repair chipped teeth and fill cavities. When this was the case, metal fillings were the strongest, longest-lasting option. However, with new technology, dentists discovered tooth-colored fillings that worked just as well as metal fillings. In fact, ultrasonic technology helps tooth-colored fillings last even longer than metal fillings.

We often see patients that want to replace their metal fillings for a variety of reasons. These include discomfort, appearance, and a distinct metal taste while eating or drinking. If these downsides of metal fillings bother you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Crosby to talk about replacing your metal fillings.

Your Dentist for Ultrasonic Dental Fillings in Anchorage

If you need dental fillings, talk to a dentist who cares about your smile. When you visit Dr. Crosby, he’ll make sure your smile is both beautiful and functional. Also, our team will ensure that your tooth-colored fillings are durable enough to last longer than composite fillings.

Don’t let decay take over! Schedule your appointment with Dr. Crosby by calling us at (907) 277-1098.