Dr. Nukk uses composite resins to fill decayed teeth and to replace fillings. Composite resins are tooth-colored, plastic materials (made of glass and resin) that are used both as fillings and to repair defects in the teeth. Because they are tooth-colored, it is difficult to distinguish them from natural teeth.

Sometimes a tooth doesn’t hurt and the filling is still in place, yet the filling needs to be replaced. Constant pressure from chewing, grinding or clenching can cause dental fillings, or restorations, to wear away, chip or crack. Although you may not be able to tell that your filling is wearing down, Dr, Nukk can identify weaknesses in your restorations during a regular check-up.

If the seal between the tooth enamel and the restoration breaks down, food particles and decay-causing bacteria can work their way under the restoration. You then run the risk of developing additional decay in that tooth. Decay that is left untreated can progress to infect the dental pulp and may cause an abscess.

If the restoration is large or the recurrent decay is extensive, there may not be enough tooth structure remaining to support a replacement filling. In these cases, your dentist may need to replace the filling with a crown.

Air Abrasion - Drill-less Dentistry
"Drill-less Dentisty" is an exciting new advance in dentistry designed to provide patient-friendly care, which is especially suitable for the treatment of children's dental problems. This is a dramatic and gentle new way to treat tooth decay in kids, because in a majority of cases, we can treat children without the two things they fear most - the needle and the drill.

Almost 90% of patients treated do not use anesthetic. Since some patients may feel minor discomfort, it is inaccurate to call it "painless dentistry", but it represents a tremendous advance in patient friendly care and treatment.

Air abrasion uses small abrasive particles of aluminum oxide, an ingredient commonly found in toothpaste and medicines. These particles are applied at high pressure in small quantities which are removed with a vacuum system. By eliminating drilling, the air abrasion process is quieter, eliminating much of the discomfort of the conventional drill.

Besides removing decay, air abrasion works well in these procedures:
- Repairing chipped, fractured or worn teeth
- Preparing for cosmetic surgery
- Removing stains and spots
- Repairing old fillings and sealants
- Repairing broken crowns and bridges

Restorative Care:
Inlays, Onlays, Crowns, Bridges, Dentures, and Partials

The advice provided here is intended to aid you in understanding some of the treatment options available. Please note that without the benefit of a full dental examination, including a review of medical history, dental x-rays, and diagnostic aids, no attempt can be made to provide specific diagnosis or recommended courses of treatment.

Copyright © 2003 Alan J Nukk Cosmetic and Family Dentistry. All rights reserved.