Dental Fillings

What are Dental Fillings?

A dental filling is a restorative option that replaces areas of decay in one or more of your teeth.

If you have a cavity, the decay should be removed and a filling can be put into its place. Most fillings use composite resin, which is tooth-colored and natural-looking in nature. These fillings can last for many years before they might need to be replaced.

What Are Dental Fillings

Why is a Dental Filling needed?

Most often, a filling is needed if you have one or more cavities. Before the cavity is allowed to get worse, the decay is completely removed from the tooth and a filling put into its place. If you forgo having a filling placed, the decay in the tooth will eventually get to the point that it reaches the pulp, or nerve, of the tooth. Once this happens, a root canal is needed and a filling alone is no longer sufficient.

Who is a good candidate for Dental Fillings?

We will perform an examination as well as take several dental x-rays to determine if you have a cavity. Cavities can occur for a variety of reasons. Some patients develop cavities because of poor dietary and oral hygiene habits. Others are simply more prone to developing decay than is deemed normal. Fillings are ideal for both pediatric and adult patients as needed.

What happens during the Dental Filling procedure?

During The Dental Filling Procedure

Local anesthetic is used to numb the area that will be receiving the new filling.

The decay is then completely removed from the tooth and the hole prepped for the filling material. We match the composite resin that is used to the rest of your teeth so that it blends in seamlessly. The composite filling is then put into place and smoothed out. It is then cured with a bright light so that it does not move, fall out or wash away. Most fillings can last for several years before it’s recommended they be replaced.

If you think you might need or want a dental filling, call our office today and we can further assist in scheduling an appointment for you.

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