Why does a dentist recommend dental fillings?
There are multiple reasons why a dentist would recommend a dental filling. The most common reason is to treat a cavity in the tooth. However, fillings can also be used to repair a chipped tooth or to fill in areas of a tooth that have been excessively worn down, such as from brushing too hard.
Are there alternatives to getting a tooth filling?
Yes, there can be alternatives to getting a tooth filling, depending on the specific issue. For example, if a cavity is too large to be effectively treated with a filling, a dentist may recommend a crown or even a tooth extraction.
What are the pros and cons of different fillings?
Different types of dental fillings, such as composite (white) fillings and amalgam (silver) fillings, each have their own advantages and disadvantages.
What is the procedure for getting a tooth fill?
The procedure for getting a tooth filling typically starts with applying a local anesthetic to numb the area. The dentist then prepares the tooth for the filling.
How are cavity fillings done between teeth?
For cavity fillings between teeth, the dentist accesses the cavity through the top of the tooth. A band is placed around the tooth to hold the filling material in place and prevent it from overflowing or bonding to the adjacent tooth.
Is the dental filling procedure painful?
The dental filling procedure should not be painful if the area is properly numbed. Most patients find the procedure to be quite comfortable.
Can you request dental sedation while you're getting a filling?
While there are different types of sedation used in dentistry, conscious sedation, where the patient is put to sleep, is not commonly used for dental fillings and is not typically offered in many dental offices.
Can fillings permanently fix cavities?
No, dental fillings do not permanently fix cavities. A filling removes the cavity and replaces the cavity with filling material, but it does not prevent new cavities from forming.
Are there side effects to fillings?
Some patients may experience sensitivity or discomfort after getting a filling. This can include tenderness at the injection site of the anesthetic, tenderness when biting, or sensitivity to cold.
Will dental fillings match my tooth color?
Dental fillings can be made to match your tooth color. While the match may not be perfect, dentists strive to select a filling color that closely matches the shade of your tooth.
What aftercare advice should I know if I'm getting it?
After getting a filling, it's important to take good care of it to prevent it from breaking or staining and to prevent new cavities from forming.
When should I schedule a dental appointment?
If you believe you need a filling or have a cavity, it's best to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to prevent the problem from getting worse.
If you have additional questions, call.
If you have any additional questions or are ready to schedule an appointment, please give us a call at Smiles By Design at (315) 630-3637.
If you are like most people, you probably think cavities are filled with or silver-mercury (yes, mercury!) amalgam. While you probably realize such fillings are unattractive in your smile, you might be surprised to learn they can be unhealthy to your teeth.
Mercury fillings react to temperature changes, expanding and contracting within your delicate tooth. This movement can weaken the tooth, causing it to break. It can also create a space between the tooth surface and filling that allows bacteria to enter, causing decay.
A composite filling is a tooth-colored material used to restore decayed teeth. Following preparation, the dentist places the composite in layers; typically using a light specialized to harden each layer. When the process is finished, the dentist will shape the composite to fit the tooth. The dentist then polishes the composite to prevent staining and early wear.