
Oct
One of the greatest joys of working at Scenic Bluffs Dental is the opportunity to get to know our valued patients and their families. These trusted relationships are built on routine visits to our office for dental exams by our dentist, Dr. Jay, and for professional cleanings by our skilled dental hygienist, Megan. These consistent appointments go far to maintain the health and beauty of our patients’ smiles. However, not all oral conditions can be controlled with brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings alone.
Some patients and their families may have a genetic risk for oral conditions such as gum disease. Periodontal disease threatens the tooth by first threatening the supportive attachments to the teeth or the gummy tissue. Additionally, comorbidities such as chronic conditions like diabetes can present new challenges to your good oral health. Likewise, the medications used to manage chronic diseases can also increase your risk of developing tooth decay by impairing the production of a natural cleanser: saliva.
A progressive condition, tooth decay can present as holes or cavities in the tooth. These cavities are commonly repaired with fillings. As their name suggests, fillings quite literally “fill in” the cavity or hole in the tooth after the area has been “prepared.” “Preparation” involves removing the decayed or damaged tissue. A dental material is then shaped and placed expertly to rebuild the damaged area and restore the tooth to its vital health, appearance, and function.
Composite resin is among one of the most popular non-metal materials used to correct cavities. It can be colored to blend in with the surrounding tooth and neighboring teeth – no obvious-looking silver hued metal here! So, composite looks very natural in the mouth. It is also a tissue-friendly and conservative material, as it preserves a maximum amount of natural tooth structure. The filling itself may be prepared and placed conveniently and quickly. With consistently good oral care, you can expect your filled tooth to last for years.
We will continue to monitor how your restorations are holding up during your return visits to our office. Call us today at (715) 953-0499 to schedule your visit with Dr. Jay Feuillerat. We look forward to getting to know you!
Scenic Bluffs Dental is headed by the husband and wife duo, Dr. Jay Feuillerat and Dr. Samantha Clare. Dr. Feuillerat earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, where he also received special recognition for his outstanding work in both prosthodontics and endodontics. His continued education includes completion of a Postgraduate Program in Contemporary, Esthetic and Implant Dentistry offered through the University of Minnesota and advanced courses in digital dentistry and endodontic techniques.
Dr. Clare received her DDS degree from the University of Minnesota. She has completed numerous continuing education opportunities, including a Postgraduate Program in Contemporary, Esthetic and Implant Dentistry, the DOCS course in Adult Sedation Dentistry, the Wisconsin-based Restorative Driven Implants course, and many other hands-on clinical sessions with the Zimmer and Spear Institutes.