By West Albany Dental
Dental fillings are a vital component of tooth restoration, serving to repair cracks and cavities caused by dental decay. While the procedure is straightforward, it can be anxiety-inducing for some, often due to concerns about drills and scraping. To help you understand what happens during a dental filling, we present the following facts.
The Procedure:
When you visit your dentist for a dental filling, they will begin by assessing your oral condition, possibly requiring dental X-rays as part of the examination. This assessment includes discussing the procedure with you. Once your dentist has a clear understanding of your dental condition, the treatment can commence.
To ensure your comfort and minimize any discomfort, your dentist will numb the teeth and surrounding tissue. The teeth with the most severe damage from tooth decay will be the first to receive fillings. Your dentist will carefully remove the dead or decayed portions of the tooth through drilling, followed by a thorough cleaning. Subsequently, the dentist will place the filling into the prepared cavity, concluding the procedure with a final polish.
The entire cavity-filling process typically takes only a few minutes. After the dentist finishes, your mouth will remain numb for a few hours, during which you may not feel like eating or drinking. Maintaining communication with your dentist is essential for monitoring the filled tooth, addressing any questions, or managing any potential complications.
Types of Fillings:
The availability of different filling types depends on factors like insurance coverage, personal preference, and cost. Dental clinics typically offer options like composite resin, gold, porcelain, glass, and silver amalgam. The two most common choices are composite resin and silver amalgam.
Gold fillings, though expensive, are chosen for their aesthetic appeal and can last 10-15 years with proper care. Silver amalgam is ideal for molar fillings, which endure significant chewing forces.
Composite resin and ceramic fillings are in demand due to their ability to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. Ceramics are nearly as expensive as gold fillings. Glass ionomer, a blend of glass and acrylic, is less durable but releases fluoride to protect teeth over time.
Replacing a Dental Filling:
While dental fillings can last for years, constant chewing can lead to wear and necessitate replacements, especially for individuals who clench or grind their teeth. If you notice cracks in your filling, it’s crucial to visit your dentist promptly. A damaged filling can potentially cause more harm to the tooth, leading to more expensive treatments.
Proper Care for Long-Term Success:
With proper care, a dental filling can provide a lasting solution for your cavity. Regardless of the type of filling, maintaining it diligently is essential. By doing so, you can prevent your dental cavity from worsening, ensuring your overall oral health.
If you’re considering getting a dental filling in the Albany area, you can find more information at https://www.westalbanydental.com. Don’t forget to check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/west-albany-dental-albany
Conclusion:
Dental fillings play a crucial role in maintaining oral health by restoring teeth damaged by decay. Understanding the procedure, types of fillings available, and the importance of proper care can help you make informed decisions about your dental health.
