Cavities can occur in teeth for a variety of reasons, from the relatively straight forward, like a build up of plaque to the more complicated and less well known like xerostamia (commonly known as dry mouth). Whatever the root cause, it is necessary to get any cavities filled as soon as possible because once a tooth starts to decay it won’t just stop of its own accord.
In the past the only possible solution to cavities was to get your dentist to fill them up with metal. These are still very common especially amongst older generations of people. Dentists have never been entirely happy with this type of filling as the metal could be rather difficult to work with. Patients too have often found them to be unsightly and felt that the look of their smile has been spoilt by dark patches on some of their teeth.
To the relief of dentists and patients alike, dental cavities can now be filled with a substance that looks far more discreet and is much easier for dentists to work with. This process of filling cavities in such a manner is called cosmetic bonding. The dental composite that is used is far more malleable than metal and so dentists can be much more accurate. It is able to be matched in the tone of its colour with the surrounding teeth to provide a really discreet look for the patient.
Ask your Leeds dentist about cosmetic bonding. Even if you already have existing metal fillings in your mouth, dentists are able to replace them with new, white fillings using cosmetic bonding so that the look of your smile is improved dramatically.
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia is a symptom of other conditions that affect the oral cavity that causes the production of saliva to stop. Saliva is very important in the oral cavity because it moistens the mouth, allowing easier eating, and also washes the teeth and removes plaque and bacteria. In essence, it is the body’s natural defence against dental disease.
