Dental Fillings With Smart Family Dentistry
A dental filling is the most common way to restore a decayed or broken tooth back to its original shape.
Signs That You May Need A Dental Filling
There are many signs to look for when determining if a dental filling is needed, however, nothing supplements a routine check-up with the dentist. Routine visits to the dentist's office are important for locating affected teeth before the problems become too great Some signs include:
Toothache - A toothache can be one of the most common signs that a filling may be needed. Tooth pain can be incredibly severe so if a toothache has started, don’t wait to talk to your dentist.
Tooth Sensitivity -Heightened sensitivity to heat, cold, and pressure, or sweets can be an indicator that a tooth is damaged and a filling may be required
Dark Spots -Teeth that have decay often times have dark hollow spots that are easily located by dentists. A simple visit to the dentist can help determine whether or not your teeth have dark spots.
A Visible Hole -Sometimes the cavity itself is visible, and a sizable hole can be seen on the top surface of the tooth. This is a clear indicator that a filling may be needed.
Chipped Tooth - Chipping a tooth may or may not be a sign that a filling is needed, but lets the dentist know the overall strength of your teeth. Sometimes, a chipped tooth can reveal the need for a filling.
A Lost Filling -If you lose a filling, it is certain that attention is needed. Consult your dentist to identify the best course of action, as the afflicted area may have increased in size. Your tooth may be able to have a new filling, or it may require a different restoration that provides more strength and support for the tooth.
What To Expect When Receiving A Dental Filling
One of the most common procedures in dentistry is a dental filling. Fillings need to be done when there is a part of your tooth that is damaged by breakage, decay, or even a developmental defect or disturbance. While some dental fillings can be done without the use of anesthetic, most require the area to be numb for the filling to be comfortably performed. After diagnosing the need for a filling, Dr. Smart will get the area numb with local anesthetic and prepare the tooth. This preparation involves the use of a dental handpiece to remove any decay or unstable tooth structure. Since most fillings are done with composite resin, which chemically bonds to your tooth, the area must be kept isolated from moisture while the restorative material is placed, sculpted, and light cured. Once the material is cured, it can be finished and polished to complete the procedure, making sure that it blends well with the tooth and works well with the surrounding teeth in function. A single filling usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes to do, depending on the area of the mouth and the size of the filling. Remember that you will likely have some residual numbness for some time after you leave the office. Be careful not to bite your numb lips, cheeks, or tongue.