When a tooth infection or decay has damaged a patient’s tooth, dentists in Wainwright can restore the tooth’s health with dental fillings.
Dental fillings are used to patch a hole or crack in a tooth. The procedure involves first removing the infection or decay from the tooth. Once this is done, the dentist can carefully clean the area and fill it with filling. This procedure will help prevent further decay and infections from forming and protect the tooth’s root. It will also help restore the tooth’s normal function, and patients will be able to return to their daily activities.
Types of Dental Fillings
Dentists can use a variety of materials as filler, including:
Composite Resins
This type of filler is made to match the appearance of the natural tooth. They are made with multiple ingredients mixed to form a paste used to cover any crack or open space. After the filler is placed on the cavity, it hardens. These fillers are very durable, but like natural teeth, they are prone to stain and could wear down over time.
Porcelain fillings
This filler is often recommended for larger cavities. It’s made in a lab and then added to the tooth. Like composite resins, these fillers closely match the patient’s natural tooth but are resistant to stains. Porcelain restorations can cover most of the patient’s tooth, but they are often expensive due to their high quality.
Gold fillings
These fillings are also created in a laboratory and cemented into the tooth. They are a very durable option and can last a patient more than twenty years; however, they can be expensive. Gold fillings also require multiple appointments with a dentist near you to place and can be noticeable on the tooth.
Amalgam fillings
These are also known as silver fillings. They are inexpensive compared to the previous ones and are long-lasting. Similar to Gold, a disadvantage of an Amalgam filling is its dark colour, which is very noticeable on the tooth. They are a great option for filling teeth in the back of the mouth.
What are the Steps for Applying Fillers?
After you and your dentist have determined if you need dental fillers and which kind you will receive, you will book an appointment to apply the filler. A dentist will use a local anesthetic around the tooth that is being filled. Then they will use a dental instrument to remove the part of the tooth that is decayed.
The space will then carefully be tested to guarantee all the decay has been removed and the tooth is ready for filling. The dentist will thoroughly clean the cavity, and the filler will be placed. Each patient’s case is unique, and some cases may involve additional steps. Some fillers require a layered application and curing with a light.
Your dentist will make recommendations for you based on your unique case and ensure you are comfortable throughout the entire procedure.
How Can You Tell if You Need a Filling?
During dental checkups, a dentist will be able to examine your teeth and check for any cavities. Any sign of decay or damage to a tooth could signify that a filling is needed; however, sometimes, these go unnoticed by the patient. Our dental clinic recommends patients visit the dentist regularly to promote their oral health. Brushing and flossing at home is not enough, and most times, cavities are only discovered during a checkup appointment.
Are you interested in dental fillings in Wainwright? Contact our friendly staff at Wainwright Family Dental to book your appointment and consult with a dentist about fillers. We look forward to helping you achieve your dental goals.