Fillings

Dental fillings are used to restore teeth affected by cavities, decay, or damage. The procedure helps maintain the tooth's structure, function, and appearance. Here's how dental fillings work:

Assessment and Preparation: The dentist examines the affected tooth and numbs the area to ensure comfort during the procedure..

Decay Removal: The decayed or damaged portion of the tooth is removed using specialized dental tools to clean the cavity.

Filling Placement: Once the cavity is cleaned, the dentist fills the space with a suitable material such as composite resin, amalgam, ceramic, or gold.

Shaping and Polishing: The filling is shaped to match the natural contours of the tooth and polished for a smooth finish, ensuring it blends seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.

Benefits of Fillings

Fillings are essential for preventing further decay, restoring the tooth's strength, and improving overall oral health. The material choice depends on factors like location, tooth function, and aesthetic preferences. Regular checkups are important to monitor the condition of fillings and maintain optimal dental health.

  • Restores Tooth Function
  • Prevents Further Decay
  • Improves Appearance
  • Preserves Tooth Structure

Frequently Asked Questions

Dental fillings are materials used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, helping to restore their shape, function, and appearance.

Common types of fillings include amalgam (silver), composite resin (tooth-colored), ceramic, and gold, each with unique benefits.

The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used, but most fillings last between 5 to 15 years with proper care.

The procedure is generally pain-free, as the area is numbed with local anesthesia. Some discomfort may occur after the procedure as the tooth heals.

Your dentist will diagnose a cavity or decay during a routine exam or with X-rays, typically before it causes significant pain or discomfort.