Dental Fillings Fillings are a type of restorative dentistry used to treat cavities. Additionally, teeth that have been cracked, or teeth that have been worn down from grinding can be repaired with a filling. In order to fix a cavity, our dentists at Town Center Dental will remove the decay and pack the void with filling material. Cavities are one of the most common oral health problems. They can cause symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, pain when biting, and spontaneous toothaches. If you suspect you have a cavity, schedule an appointment sooner rather than later.What Happens During a Filling?During a filling, local anesthetics such as lidocaine are used. Dentists will inject the area using a needle. The injection may cause some discomfort initially, but this will prevent pain during the procedure. After the area is sufficiently numb, the dentist will begin to remove the decay using a drill, laser, or air abrasion instrument. Next, the space must be filled to prevent further decay and buildup of bacteria in the area. Then a light is used to cure the material and make it harden. Finally, the dentist will file and polish the restored tooth. What Type of Filling Material Will I Get?There are a variety of materials available for filling cavities. Materials used for filling include gold, silver, porcelain, and resin. The type of material you receive will depend on the extent and location of the decay. Gold and silver amalgam are the most durable filling materials and can last up to 10 to 15 years. This type of filling can look out of place which is why some patients choose composite resin fillings. Resin fillings come in a more natural color. Complex cavities can require an indirect filling or a temporary filling. Indirect fillings are used when teeth are too damaged for a normal filling but not damaged enough for a crown. Temporary fillings are used when a patient requires more than one appointment to fix their cavities or following a root canal. To maintain your fillings, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. How Can I Prevent Cavities?It is important to practice proper oral hygiene in order to prevent cavities. We must give our teeth sufficient attention every day to maintain good health. Be sure to brush and floss teeth twice a day or ideally after each meal, use fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash, and regularly visit our dentist every six months to receive a cleaning. If a cavity is left untreated it will affect the deeper layers of the tooth. This can lead to an abscessed tooth which is an infection at the root. How Can I Take Care Of My Cavity?Dental professionals recommend scheduling cleanings every six months. By doing so, you will be able to catch cavities early on in their development. If you suspect you have a cavity it is important to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Town Center Dental offers all of these treatments and more, so please call us at 636-273-5866. Allow our experienced dental professionals to replenish your smile. |
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