What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are designed to fill in areas of tooth where decay is present. A filling helps to provide strength and structure to a tooth that has otherwise been compromised by decay. Fillings are simple procedures done in-office at your own convenience. The most common filling type is composite resin, which is tooth-colored, allowing it to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth.
Why do you need Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings may be needed for a variety of different reasons. An examination of the teeth, as well as a series of x-rays, can help to determine if you are in need of one or more fillings. The most common reasons a filling will be recommended include:
- There is decay present in one or more teeth
- You have deep grooves and fissures in your teeth
- A tooth has a small crack, break, or fracture
- A tooth has been worn and needs to be built back up
What makes you a good candidate for Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are essential for people who have cavities in one or more of their teeth. The filling itself is designed to keep the tooth strong to prevent further problems. Fillings are long-lasting and durable, with most patients having fillings in their mouth for upwards of 10 years. It is not uncommon for patients to want older metal fillings replaced with tooth-colored composite ones.
What happens during the procedure for Dental Fillings?
First, you will receive local anesthesia to make the procedure more comfortable for you. The tooth is drilled into, to remove the decay present and make an area for the filling to be placed. A special bonding agent is applied into this hole, and the composite resin placed inside. The filling is then smoothed into place and cured with a blue light. You can expect your filling to last for many years with proper hygiene and dental care.
If you think you may need a dental filling, or have had a filling fall out, contact our office so that we can get you in for an appointment.