Fillings are a very common dental procedure. Many of us develop cavities, even when we take good care of our teeth. Fillings fill in teeth after the decayed material has been removed, allowing you to keep the tooth and protect it against further decay. They can also strengthen cracked or broken teeth, as well as teeth that have been worn down.
When Is a Filling Appropriate?
Fillings can be used in a range of circumstances. If a cavity develops, dentists can remove decaying or infected tissue from the tooth and use a filling to repair it. Fillings are also used during a root canal procedure. After the pulp has been removed from the tooth, it is cleaned, filed, and filled to restore the inner tooth structure. A crown is often inserted after a root canal to restore the outer tooth structure.
Fillings can also protect damaged teeth that have cracked or broken. They provide extra strength and can help to prevent an extraction. A filling may also be recommended for teeth that have been worn down through grinding or other causes.
What Are Fillings Made From?
Tooth fillings can be made using several different materials. Traditionally, they were made using metal amalgams, which are not as common today. These metal fillings are cheaper but are also more obvious and can stain your teeth overtime. Other materials, such as composite and ceramic, can be made to closely match the color of your natural teeth.
Different materials have their own advantages and disadvantages. You can discuss your options with your dentist to find the best filling material for you.
What Does Having a Filling Involve?
The process of inserting a filling involves several steps. First, the dentist will numb the area to be treated using an anesthetic. They will then remove the decayed tooth material. Once the decay has been removed, the dentist cleans the tooth to remove debris and bacteria. Before filling, the dentist might insert a liner to protect the nerve if the filling is close to the root. Lastly, they can fill the cavity and finish and polish it to ensure the correct bite and look.
About Temporary Fillings
In some cases, a temporary filling might be used. Temporary fillings are typically inserted between appointments when a procedure requires multiple appointments. They are often used after a root canal, in emergency dental treatment, or if a tooth nerve needs time to heal. Temporary fillings are removed so that they can be replaced with a permanent filling. They don’t usually last more than a month.
Choose Simple Dental for Your Fillings
Simple Dental provides routine dentistry services such as fillings. When you need a caring dentist to help you care for your oral health, we deliver the care that you’re looking for. Our other services include teeth cleaning, crowns and bridges, implants, pediatric dentistry, and more. Our office provides an open and caring environment for patients of all ages with a range of needs.
Book a consultation today for a routine checkup or if you think you need a filling. Use our online form or get in touch by phone or email.
