Dental cavities aren’t just painful; they can lead to bone and tooth loss. The process of filling a cavity can be a confusing one, especially for a patient who has never been treated before. In this guide, we’ll explain what fillings are, how they’re done, and how to care for them.

Dental Fillings: What Are They?

Dental fillings are the most effective way to treat cavities. When teeth decay, they lose function and structural integrity.

Cavities erode the teeth, making them more susceptible to damage and sensitivity. Fillings help dentists restore a tooth’s shape and minimize the risk of further problems.

Today’s fillings are made of numerous materials, with the dentist’s choice depending on various factors. These materials all have unique pros and cons, but our knowledgeable and skilled dentists can help to choose the right type of filling for the needs.

When Do Patients Need Dental Fillings?

Most of our patients get fillings when they have cavities. However, fractures and age-related erosion may also play a role. Fillings can eliminate discoloration and preserve a tooth’s structure.

Before getting a filling, it’s important to consult a dentist who can identify the cause of the discomfort. Sensitivity and tooth pain aren’t always related to cavities, and many conditions have similar symptoms. If one is experiencing symptoms such as tooth discoloration, visible gaps between teeth, or pain when eating and drinking, be sure to make an appointment as soon as possible.

Filling Materials

Dental care has come a very long way in the past few decades, and silver is no longer the only option for fillings. Today’s dentists use materials such as amalgam, composite resin, porcelain, and plastic to achieve great results. During the pre-treatment consultation, a dentist will evaluate the condition and recommend the best materials for the job.

• Gold fillings aren’t most patients’ first choice, but they do have advantages as far as strength and durability are concerned.
• Amalgam/silver fillings have most of the benefits of gold at a much lower cost. They can last up to ten years, and they’re very resistant to chewing forces.
• Composite fillings are quite popular among public speakers and TV personalities. They’re great for the front teeth, and they’re versatile enough to fix damaged or fractured molars.

Depending on the needs and hygiene habits, our dentists may recommend other materials such as glass ionomer or ceramic for fillings. To learn more about today’s dental filling materials, call our local office.

The Dental Filling Process: What to Expect

Tooth fractures, natural deterioration, and cavities are all treated in much the same way, with minor procedural differences throughout. Here, we’ll explain how fillings are done.

• First, the dentist or an assistant will provide a dose of a local anesthetic. Unlike general anesthetics, these don’t put one to sleep.
• The next step may vary depending on the purpose of the filling. For cavities, a dentist will use a laser, an air sander, or a drill to remove damaged parts of a tooth. While the process isn’t painful, the noise can be somewhat disconcerting.
• During the probing step, the dentist will use a special tool to ensure that all the damaged areas have been removed. With thorough probing, we’ll learn which type of filling will be most effective.
• Next, the dentist will put the filling materials into the affected area. If tooth-colored composites are used, multiple applications may be necessary.

Finally, it’s time to polish the filled tooth. During the process, the dentist will remove any extra materials and ensure that the treated area’s shape fits well with other teeth.