Dental fillings prevent further decay by closing spaces where bacteria can enter. A dental filling, or tooth restoration, is used to restore the function and look of a decayed or damaged tooth. Different fillings are available based on the patient’s needs and preferences. At Impressions Dentistry, the dentist will discuss the best filling for you and help you decide what suits your teeth.
White fillings are popular options at our practice because they match the color of natural teeth. Other options include metal, gold alloys, and porcelain. Metal fillings require more of the tooth to be removed for placement. After the dentist prepares the tooth for the filling, they will insert the material and cure it with a special light to harden it.
Patients can care for their dental fillings by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Patients should schedule regular checkups to ensure cavities are caught early and treated as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the tooth.
The Dental Fillings Procedures
To fill a tooth, your dentist will first remove the decayed enamel and any debris that has built up over time using special dental instruments. Then, they will use a composite resin to fill the tooth and seal it shut. This will fill the space left behind by removing decay and prevent other bacteria from causing more harm. A filling is a fast, affordable way to stop tooth decay before it causes severe damage to your oral health.
After your dental filling procedure, you can eat and speak normally while you heal. It is essential to practice excellent oral hygiene to prevent future tooth decay. Attending your follow-up appointments is necessary, so your dentist can monitor your progress and ensure your fillings are not damaged. If you experience damage to your fillings, anesthetics can be used to manage discomfort during the appointment.
The Benefits of Fillings
Tooth Protection
When a cavity expands, it can eat away all of the healthy parts of the tooth until there is nothing left but a hollow shell that can easily break or crack under pressure. A filling restores the lost structure and function of your tooth while preventing bacteria from reaching the inner structures of the tooth and causing further decay.
Protects Surrounding Teeth
When a tooth has a large area of decay, it can affect the healthy areas of the tooth and potentially cause more damage and affect the neighboring teeth. The exposed areas of the tooth can be prone to infection and decay due to food particles and bacteria. A filling closes gaps to prevent anything from leaking and causing more decay or damage.
A filling is a standard treatment that is designed to restore a tooth that has been affected by decay or trauma. To learn more about dental fillings visit Impressions Dentistry at 1325 1st Street, Gilroy, CA 95020, or call (669) 327-5623.