Traditional cavity treatments, such as fillings, may be a treatment of the past thanks to the researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry. Although the treatment is still in the clinical trial phase, resin infiltration is proving to be promising alternative to fillings. Currently, there are more than 150 participants involved in the resin infiltration study at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. However, the treatment has already been approved by the FDA and is already being offered commercially. Resin infiltration could possible replace dental fillings (for smaller cavities) because of the many benefits it provides patients.

How Does the Treatment Work?

The treatment is simple. A dentist will use a gel to clean the area by inserting the substance between the two surfaces of the teeth. The gel is pushed into the cavity with the help of a perforated sheet, and then a liquid resin is pushed through the perforated sheet into the cavity. The resin must be in liquid form to properly absorb into the cavity. The final step will involve a dental curing light to set the resin in place.

According to Nathaniel Lawson, D.M.D, School of Dentistry Division of Biomaterials, the procedure has gained popularity among individuals because a shot and drilling are not required for a resin infiltration. In addition, all tooth enamel is preserved during the procedure, which is another factor that makes it a potentially popular treatment option among individuals with small cavities.

Many individuals fear going to the dentist because a mild cavity, which hasn’t reached the tooth’s root, will require a filling. Not only will the new treatment eliminate the need for a numbing injection, a dentist will not need to drill to get the the cavity as drilling can lead to damage the integrity of the tooth.

Although the treatment has been beneficial so far, there are a few requirements that must be met in order for the procedure to be effective. Resin infiltration isn’t an option for those who have large cavities, which have reached the tooth’s root, or cavities on the top of the tooth. Resin infiltration is only a treatment option for those who have cavities in between the teeth and on smooth surfaces.

Although the treatment is primarily being used in a clinical trail, it could have a drastic and positive impact on the future of the dental industry.

Is Resin Infiltration a Better Way to Treat Cavities?

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have great hope in its potential to help individuals seek treatment for cavities without having to undergo pain. In addition, the treatment also promotes natural tooth preservation because there isn’t a need for drilling.

According to Augusto Robles, D.D.S, professor at Operative Dentistry Curriculum, “I never thought this would be possible for dentistry. In my 24 years of practicing, this changes everyone we’ve done so far. It’s marvelous.”

I am an author, blogger, and musician from Wichita, KS. Working with Pauly Dental Group in Wichita has been an educational and enlightening experience.