Tooth-Colored Fillings

The patient had concerns of decay and aesthetics of her upper right teeth. The enamel on two teeth appeared worn and brown discoloration was noted. During an exam, Dr. Patel found a moderate depth of decay. A plan was presented to the patient for composite, also known as "tooth colored" fillings for the restorations. Dr. Patel removed all decay and placed the composite fillings. Proper adjustments were made to her bite, the teeth were polished and flossing contacts were checked. The patient should maintain good home care and her teeth will be continuously examined at her routine hygiene appointments.

The patient presented for an emergency appointment due to a broken tooth. He was beginning to have pain and the tooth was sharp. During an exam we were able to see a large piece of the existing crown had broken off and the tooth behind was discolored around an old filling . After taking an x-ray we were able to diagnose current decay under the crown and filling, so a treatment plan was presented for replacing both. The teeth were excavated (decay cleaned out) a new filling was placed in one and the other tooth was scanned using digital impressions to design and make a same day crown. The crown was placed, bite was checked and adjustments were made for a correct fit. The patient was encouraged to continue proper hygiene care at home and scheduled for his routine care in our office.

The patient presented to us after having a wisdom tooth extracted at an oral surgeon's office. The tooth in front of the one she just had removed appeared to have a black spot on the side surface and the biting surface was worn. The gum tissue surrounding the tooth appeared inflamed and overgrown. Upon examination, there appeared to be a "flap" of tissue between the extraction site and existing tooth where a drainage of pus had developed and an x-ray confirmed that decay was present as well. Dr. Patel prescribed antibiotics and drained the infection site. The decay was cleaned out of the tooth and a composite "tooth-colored" filling was placed. The patient returned a few days later for laser treatment. Dr. Patel used our Waterlase laser to remove the overgrowth of tissue surrounding her tooth as well as all remaining infection inside and around the bone. The patient returned regularly for follow up appointments to monitor the area and was able to continue with her regular hygiene schedule in our office.

The patient presented with broken teeth and an esthetic concern. A digital x-ray revealed a deep depth of decay in the patient's last three lower left teeth. Intraoral photos were taken and reviewed with the patient in order for him to visually see the need for treatment. Dr. Patel recommended composite tooth colored fillings. The teeth were excavated with laser assistance to access decay below the gum line. Composite tooth-colored fillings were placed, his occlusion was checked and bite adjusted. The patient will return for his routine hygiene appointments.

The patient presented for a second opinion after seeing several other dentists, regarding her concern of decay. She had staining and "black spots" she could see on her teeth along with an old amalgam (silver) filling that she felt was falling apart. During an exam with Dr. Patel, digital x-rays were taken, as well as photos using our intraoral camera. The x-rays were examined using our Logicon technology and revealed active decay present. Dr. Patel diagnosed a plan to remove the old filing and decay. The teeth were excavated and due to the depth of decay, a protective liner was placed in each tooth to help calm the nerves and prevent root canals. Composite (tooth colored material) was filled and shaped in each tooth. The patient will continue to be seen for her routine cleanings and exams to help ensure the health of her teeth and gums.