Nearly everyone will need a filling from time to time. No matter how diligent you are at brushing and flossing, decay can eat away at your teeth. In fact, according to the Center for Disease Control, more than 90 percent of U.S. adults between the ages of 20-64 have had cavities sometime in their life.
If you are one of the millions affected by dental decay, a dental filling may be the perfect solution to save and protect your natural teeth. The trick is to catch things early before any further damage can develop.
Filling the gap, protecting from further decay
Dental fillings do just that, they fill the gap in a tooth’s structure after the decay has been removed. Once fillings are placed, they also act as protection by sealing it so the bacteria responsible for damage and decay can no longer reach the sensitive part of the tooth.
There are times when a tooth is so damaged that a dental filling simply won’t work. In those instances, the doctor may recommend other treatment options such as a porcelain crown.
Fillings are a simpler process, thanks to new techniques
A filling can protect your tooth and eliminate the pain and sensitivity of decay. Dr. Nadler or Dr. Sheth-Nadler will numb the affected area, drill the tooth, remove any decayed or damaged material, clean the remaining tooth area, then insert the filling.
Once the filling is placed, the doctor will seal the filling into your tooth while setting everything into its permanent place. A little smoothing and filing to make sure the tooth matches your other teeth, and finally, the doctor will check to make sure your bite is right and everything is in alignment. The result is a natural-looking, newly-filled tooth that should last 15 years or more, with the proper attention and care.
It’s important to note that today’s numbing agents are a vast improvement over older numbing techniques. That’s because they take hold quickly and wear off gradually, making the dental filling process faster, simpler and relatively painless.
Three types of dental fillings
The kind of dental filling you will need often depends on where the decayed tooth is located. The doctor will review the types of fillings with you and explain which one may be the best choice for your unique situation.
- Amalgam filling – used for limited situations. Amalgam is a mix of metals that is applied to the surface of the tooth. It is safe, durable, and can withstand high pressure making it a great choice for limited situations of the mouth.
- Tooth-colored resin – natural, realistic look. The resin is made of ground acrylic and quartz-like particles and will be perfectly matched to your teeth. The resin filling protects the tooth from further decay – and resin is so natural looking!
- Porcelain/ceramic –also known as onlays. This natural-looking, tooth-colored filling, is made to match the color and structure of your surrounding teeth. Onlays are stronger than resin fillings and can last significantly longer, depending on the degree of care and maintenance you are willing to give them.
If you have tooth sensitivity or suspect you might have a cavity, call us for an appointment and let’s take a look. Call (330) 847-0676 now!
