Dental fillings are a common and effective way to treat cavities. Cavities happen when tooth decay creates holes in your teeth. If not treated, these holes can grow bigger, leading to pain and infection. Dental fillings help repair the damage and restore the tooth’s function and shape.
At our Duren & Marsh Dentistry practice, we use fillings to stop decay from spreading. Fillings also help strengthen the tooth, allowing you to chew and speak properly. Understanding what dental fillings are and how they work can help you take better care of your oral health.
Fillings come in various materials, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right type of filling depends on multiple factors like the location of the cavity, the extent of the decay, and your budget.
Knowing about the different options can help you make an informed decision. Let’s explore the types of dental fillings, the procedure for getting a filling, and tips for caring for your fillings to prevent future cavities.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are materials used to repair teeth damaged by cavities or decay. When you get a cavity, the decayed part of the tooth is removed, and the empty space needs to be filled to restore the tooth’s shape and function. Fillings help protect the tooth from further damage and stop the decay from spreading.
Fillings also make the tooth stronger, so you can chew properly without pain. Without a filling, the cavity could grow larger, causing more serious problems like toothaches or infections. The filling seals the area, preventing bacteria from getting in and causing more decay.
At Duren & Marsh Dentistry, we often use fillings to fix small to medium-sized cavities. It’s a simple procedure that can make a big difference in your oral health. By filling cavities early, you avoid bigger and more painful dental issues later on.
Types of Dental Fillings: Pros and Cons
There are several types of dental fillings, each made from different materials. Some common types include:
1. Amalgam Fillings:
- Pros: Very durable and can last many years. Less expensive than other types.
- Cons: Silver color, which is noticeable and less attractive than tooth-colored options. Contains mercury, which some patients prefer to avoid.
2. Composite Fillings:
- Pros: Tooth-colored, so they blend in well with natural teeth. Bonds directly to the tooth, providing good support.
- Cons: Can wear out faster than amalgam fillings, especially on chewing surfaces. May be more expensive and require longer time to place.
3. Ceramic Fillings:
- Pros: Very attractive and durable. Stain-resistant and more natural-looking.
- Cons: More expensive than both amalgam and composite fillings. Requires multiple visits if not done with digital impressions.
4. Gold Fillings:
- Pros: Extremely durable and can last for many years. Some people like the look of gold.
- Cons: Very expensive and noticeable due to the gold color. Requires multiple visits to complete.
Understanding the pros and cons of each type of filling can help you and your dentist choose the best option for your specific needs. It’s important to consider factors like the location of the cavity, how much decay there is, and your personal preferences.
Different fillings offer different advantages, so discussing these options with your dentist is a good way to make an informed decision.
The Dental Filling Procedure: What to Expect
Getting a dental filling is a straightforward process that usually takes about an hour. First, we’ll numb the area around the affected tooth to make sure you’re comfortable. You’ll feel a slight pinch from the anesthetic, but it works quickly to numb the area.
Once you’re numb, we remove the decayed part of your tooth using a small drill or laser. This step gets rid of all the bacteria and makes sure the tooth is ready for the filling. Next, we clean the area to make it sterile. If we’re using a tooth-colored filling like composite, we’ll then apply a special gel to prepare the tooth surface, followed by the filling material. This material is layered and then hardened with a special light.
After the filling is placed, we shape it so it matches the natural contours of your tooth. Lastly, we check your bite to ensure the filling fits comfortably. You might feel some numbness for a few hours after the procedure, but this will wear off, and you can then get back to your normal activities.
Caring for Your Dental Fillings and Preventing Future Cavities
Taking good care of your dental fillings helps them last longer and keeps your mouth healthy. Here are some easy tips to follow:
1. Brush and Floss Daily: Keeping your teeth clean helps prevent new cavities from forming. Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque.
2. Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and can prevent decay from starting.
3. Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on hard foods like ice or hard candies can damage your fillings. Stick to softer foods to keep your fillings intact.
4. Regular Check-Ups: Visit us at Duren & Marsh Dentistry for regular dental check-ups. We’ll make sure your fillings are still in good shape and catch any new cavities early.
5. Limit Sugary Snacks: Sugary foods and drinks can promote tooth decay. Opt for healthier snacks like fruits and vegetables instead.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your fillings and your overall oral health in great shape. Prevention is key to avoiding more extensive dental work in the future.
All About Dental Fillings
Dental fillings play a vital role in maintaining oral health by repairing damaged teeth and preventing further decay. They allow you to keep a healthy, functional smile without the discomfort of cavities. Knowing about the different types of fillings, what to expect during the procedure, and how to care for them can help you make informed decisions about your dental care.
At Duren & Marsh Dentistry, we are committed to providing the best possible dental care for our patients in Belmont. If you think you might need a dental filling or want to learn more about how to keep your smile healthy, contact us today to schedule your appointment.
Our team is here to help you with all your dental needs, ensuring that you and your family maintain beautiful, healthy smiles for years to come.