A dental filling can fix issues like cavities and minor fractures. It is a restorative dental treatment, which is also applicable in cases of an uneven tooth surface or biting and chewing issues of the jaw. A dental filling is also an option for reducing sensitivity when there is enamel loss due to tooth decay.
Initial Consultation with Your Dentist
During your initial consultation, the dentist will check for troublesome areas using a dental probe and cavity-detecting solutions while inspecting your teeth. The dentist may also use an x-ray to get more information on the location and intensity of the damage.
There are several materials used for making dental fillings. The specific material fills and seals a cavity, preventing future damage to the tooth caused by decay. The dental filling material, for example, could be direct composite bonding, porcelain, glass ionomer, silver amalgam, or gold inlays. The best option will be determined by considerations such as the location of the cavity, the patient’s medical history, aesthetic needs, financial availability, and personal preference.
Your dentist will explain to you what material options are available and suitable in your case. You should also ask your dentist about the advantages and disadvantages of each material.
Dental Filling Process
The first stage in the dental filling process is to give the patient a local anesthetic, which numbs the area around the damaged tooth and makes them more comfortable throughout the procedure.
The decayed or damaged tooth, as well as the areas around it, should next be prepped for treatment. To remove the damaged components of the tooth, a dental handpiece or laser may be employed. To eliminate any leftover bacteria or debris, an acid gel is applied to the region. After this, the material is added to the cavity to fill it.
The placement of composite fillings necessitates the isolation of the damaged tooth, which attempts to avoid any interference by allowing moisture into the composite restoration’s bonding process. Various adhesives are applied before the composite material for this purpose. The dentist will then harden the composite using a special light.
To complete the process, the dentist proceeds to polish the treated tooth.
Follow-up Appointment after the Process
Your dentist might ask you to make a follow-up visit to confirm that your oral condition after the process is healthy. The doctor will also advise you on how to prevent decay from developing under or near the filling. You will also receive instructions on maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine so you can avoid cavities in the future.
The Benefits
The following are some major benefits of this treatment that will persuade you to visit your dentist and get this treatment.
Stop Cavities from Growing
When you opt for the filling process, you are in fact eliminating cavities from your teeth. Cavities develop when bacteria make holes in your teeth’s enamel. This lead to tooth decay. During filling, your dentist will first remove bacteria growing in those cavities and then fill them. The filling will leave no place for cavities to grow and your teeth remain protected.
Protection from Decay
Tooth decay starts when cavities are formed in your teeth. These cavities allow bacteria to cross the enamel layer and enter your dentine. After which bacteria start decaying the tooth. The process will eliminate the cavities and your teeth will become sealed. As a result, bacteria will have no opening to the dentine of your teeth. This will prevent your teeth from decaying.
Better Looking Teeth
When you have cavities or fractured teeth, it will make your teeth look improper. Just imagine how badly a broken tooth from the front will impact your overall personality. The process will eliminate these cavities and help your teeth to retain their original shape. This will for sure make your teeth look better.
Strengthen Your Teeth
When your teeth become hollow or fractured, they become weak. You cannot even use them to chew some soft foods. During the teeth-filling process, hollow spaces in your teeth will be filled. Similarly, support is provided to the fractured teeth as well. This will strengthen your teeth.
Teeth Filling Aftercare Tips
- Don’t use chewy or sticky foods for at least one to two weeks after this treatment. Otherwise filling will not harden properly and your teeth will be affected.
- Avoid brushing as well for a few days. Use mouthwash to keep your teeth and gums clean.
- Use tape floss after the filling process. Your teeth become sensitive for a few days after this process, so regular floss may be painful.
· If you feel any pain in your teeth after filling, take a prescribed painkiller. Contact your dentist if the pain is persistent.
Dental Filling in Seattle
At Sue Vetter, we offer quality and affordable dental fillings in Seattle. During an initial consultation, we will determine the extent and size of the damage and decide what will be the appropriate course of action. In case a dental filling is suitable for you, you will be guided on what material to choose. Overall, you can be assured of having a comfortable treatment experience with us.
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2101 North 34th Street Suite 170
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MONDAY – BY APPOINTMENT
TUESDAY – 7 AM – 3:30 PM
WEDNESDAY – 7 AM – 3:30 PM
THURSDAY – 7 AM – 3:30 PM
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