Dentistry has changed a lot in 24 years since I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. My late father is also a Penn graduate (1957). He started our practice in 1960 after serving as a dentist in the US Navy.

Tooth drilling (preparation) was very aggressive, leaving thin, weakened portions of enamel suceptible to fracture.Today, tooth preparation and cavity filling is very conservative, quick, and can often be done without anesthesia (novocaine).

Filling materials are prettier, stronger and easier to place than previous generations of esthetic or tooth-colored materials.

Success and longevity of any dental work is still, however, contingent on the patient’s ability to keep plaque off of the teeth and gums. Proper brushing and flossing (prevention) is the best way to  minimize risk for dental caries (cavities) and gingivitis (red puffy gums).