Strengthen Your Teeth and Remedy Damage

A filling is one of the most common procedures carried out at a dental office. If your Love to Smile dentist recommends a tooth filling, it’s nothing to worry about. The purpose of a tooth filling is to help treat damaged teeth due to decay and restore their normal functioning.

What Is Tooth Filling?

To treat a cavity, your dentist may recommend that the decayed portion of the tooth be removed. This area is then filled with another material. Fillings may also be recommended for repairing broken or cracked teeth or teeth worn down due to grinding and nail-biting. You can talk to our dental professionals at Love to Smile to learn more about tooth filling and why you might need one.

Which Type of Tooth Filling is the Best?

There are different types of tooth filling. The best type for you will depend on various factors like the extent of repair required, the location of the cavity, and cost. Your dentist will also inquire if you have an allergy to any type of filling material. This may influence whether you can get it or not. The different types of filling materials include:

• Gold fillings: these are custom-made and cemented into place. Gold inlays are durable and will last for more than 2 decades because they’re well-tolerated by gum tissues. A gold filling is the most expensive choice and is typically more elaborate-requiring multiple visits.
• Amalgam (silver) fillings: These are relatively inexpensive and can be quite durable as well since they’re resistant to wear and tear. But because they’re dark in color, they’re typically not used for visible areas of the tooth.
• Composite resins: for a more natural look, composite resin is more recommended. But they are less durable and can be easily stained. They are often used more for smaller fillings.
• Porcelain fillings: these are custom-made in a lab and bonded to your teeth. Porcelain fillings are also called on lays or inlays. like gold fillings, they can be quite expensive too.

What to expect when I get a filling from a dentist near me?

A filling is a simple procedure but the specifics may vary depending on the type of filling you are getting. Typically, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area. next, a drill will be used to cut through the enamel to remove the decayed part of the teeth then shape the space left behind in preparation for a filling. A liner will be put in to protect the pulp. In some cases, the teeth may be etched with an acid gel to ensure the filling bonds properly. A special light is used to harden some composite fillings and make them stronger. After the filling is one, the tooth and filling will be polished to make them even. A follow-up visit may be necessary to sharpen edges.