“Dr. Bodak, I know I have a few cavities and I lost a filling.”

Cosmetic Restorations:  Bonding

Before Cosmetic Restorations - Cavities

Did you know that tooth decay (“caries”) is caused by a bacterial infection in your mouth?  Bacteria grow naturally in everyone’s mouth.  A healthy diet, regular brushing and flossing and professional dental cleaning can help to remove bacteria and limit tooth decay.  People with certain medical conditions are more likely to develop tooth decay.  Using the DIAGNOdent laser during your regular dental check-ups, I can identify and treat small areas of decay before they become bigger and more complex problems.

At one time or another, you have probably been told, like most of us, that you had a “cavity” or tooth decay.  After removing the decay from the tooth’s enamel and underlying dentin, it is important to consider the quality of the restoration.  More than a decade ago, I stopped using ugly mercury-amalgum fillings to restore decayed teeth.  Silver colored, mercury-amalgum fillings darken healthy tooth structure, and convey an unattractive, unnatural appearance.

After Cosmetic Restorations: Bonding

On the other hand, tooth-colored ceramic composites can be sculpted to match the form and color of the natural tooth. These composites, or bondings, are made from a resin mixture of tiny nanoparticles of porcelain, glass, and ceramic.  This bonding material forms a chemical hybrid layer with tooth enamel and dentin, sealing the exposed dentin and blending with the remaining tooth enamel.  A bonded tooth creates a comfortable restoration with an attractive, natural appearance.  With a skillful cosmetic restoration, I can return your tooth to its normal function and optimal appearance so that you will enjoy smiling again.