What is a Dental Filling and Why you might Need a Filling?
A dental filling is used to repair a tooth that has been damaged, usually by decay or a cavity. When a cavity forms, it creates a small hole in the tooth that, if left untreated, can grow larger and cause discomfort or even infection. A filling “fills” that hole, preventing further decay and protecting the tooth from future damage. Fillings are a simple, effective way to keep your teeth in top shape.
At Pearl Dentals, we use high-quality materials for our fillings, which not only repair the tooth but blend in naturally with your smile.
There are a few reasons why a filling might be necessary:
To Treat a Cavity: Cavities are one of the most common reasons for needing a filling. They’re caused by tooth decay, which breaks down the tooth’s structure and leaves small holes.
To Repair Cracks or Chips: Sometimes teeth can get chipped or cracked due to injury, grinding, or biting on something hard. A filling can repair these minor issues and restore your tooth’s strength.
To Replace Old Fillings: If you have an older filling that has worn down or fallen out, a new filling can help keep your tooth healthy and secure.
What Types of Fillings Are Available?
At Pearl Dentals, we offer several types of fillings to suit your needs:
Composite Fillings: Made from a durable resin, these fillings match the color of your teeth, making them ideal for visible areas. They look natural and blend in beautifully with your smile.
Amalgam Fillings: These silver-colored fillings have been used for many years and are extremely strong, making them great for back teeth that handle most of your chewing.
Ceramic Fillings: These fillings are made from porcelain, which can be color-matched to your teeth. They’re durable and stain-resistant, but they’re often used for larger fillings.
During your appointment, we’ll help you decide which filling is best based on the location of the cavity and your personal preferences.
The Dental Filling Process:What to Expect
If it’s your first time getting a filling, here’s what you can expect:
Step 1: Numbing the Area
We start by numbing the area around the tooth to make sure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. You may feel a little pressure, but it should be completely comfortable.
Step 2: Removing the Decay
Next, we’ll gently remove the decayed part of the tooth, cleaning out any damaged areas. This step is essential to prevent the decay from spreading and ensure a strong, lasting filling.
Step 3: Placing the Filling
Once the tooth is clean, we’ll apply the filling material to fill in the gap. For tooth-colored fillings, we use a special light to harden the material, bonding it securely to your tooth.
Step 4: Shaping and Polishing
Finally, we’ll shape and polish the filling to match the natural shape of your tooth. We make sure it feels comfortable, so your bite is just as natural as before.
The whole process is straightforward, and most fillings can be done in a single appointment.
How to Care for Your Filling
After you get a filling, you’ll want to take good care of it to make it last as long as possible. Here are some tips:
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash will help keep your filling (and the rest of your teeth!) in great shape.
Be Mindful of Hard Foods: Avoid biting down on very hard or sticky foods, especially if you have an amalgam filling. These can cause wear and tear over time.
Visit Us for Regular Check-Ups: Even with a filling, it’s important to have regular dental check-ups to monitor your teeth and catch any new issues early.
Most fillings last several years with proper care, and we’re always here to help if you have any questions about your dental health.
Why Choose Pearl Dentals for Your Dental Filling?
At Pearl Dentals, we know that dental work can sometimes feel a little intimidating. That’s why we focus on making every visit as comfortable and pleasant as possible. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel at ease with our friendly team and gentle care. We take the time to explain each step of the process so you know exactly what to expect, and we’re happy to answer any questions you have along the way.
