FAQs About Getting a Dental Filling

The dental filling is a popular procedure in restorative dentistry. It is often required to repair a tooth that is affected by cavities or decay. If the general dentist has suggested getting a dental filling, you may want to learn more about the process.

What is a dental filling?

A filling covers a hole in a tooth or repairs a slightly chipped tooth to its original condition. The dentist will perform the procedure using composite resin materials that bond to the teeth.

What signs might indicate that someone needs a dental filling?

Sometimes, patients may not notice any sign that they need a filling, which is why routine dental checkups are important. Anyone experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain when eating cold, hot or sweet foods or drinks may have a tooth decay that needs to be filled. Toothache is a common sign of a cavity, and the pain can radiate from the gums to the jawbone.

What is the filling procedure like?

After the dentist finds a cavity, they will remove all the decayed material in the tooth and fill the tooth with composite material. To minimize pain, they will numb the tooth and surrounding tissues with a local anesthetic.

If the treatment painful?

Filling a tooth is mostly painless because of the local anesthetic used. After the treatment, the tooth may feel somewhat sensitive, and the gums may feel tender and bruised. The sensitivity will get better within a few days. If the symptoms persist, contact the dentist for advice.

What type of material is used for filling a tooth?

In the past, amalgam fillings were often used to fill a decayed tooth. Nowadays, dentists mostly use tooth-colored composite resin. The composite bonds well with the tooth to improve its strength, and the material is customizable so the tooth does not look different.

Can old amalgam fillings be replaced?

Mercury amalgam fillings are made from multiple metal elements, including zinc, copper and liquid mercury. However, they are not natural-looking, and there have been disputes about the safe use of the filling. Patients who have mercury fillings can visit the dentist to have them replaced with composite fillings.

How long will the dental fillings last?

With proper care and maintenance from the patient and dentist, composite fillings can last for several years before needing replacement. To get the most out of dental fillings, patients need to be proactive about their oral health through regular brushing and flossing, as well as visiting the dentist regularly for professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. It is also advisable to eat a healthy diet with minimal refined and unrefined sugar.

In conclusion

If you are experiencing a toothache or suspect that you might have a cavity, book an appointment with the dentist for a dental filling procedure. After the treatment, your tooth should be free of decay and plaque. If you have additional questions about the process, the general dentist will be happy to help.

Request an appointment here: https://www.casasadobesdentistry.com or call Casas Adobes Dentistry at (520) 365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.