Fillings are the most common treatment used for cavities. Composite fillings are a type of filling that may also sometimes be used for treating broken, cracked, or worn teeth.
Filling a tooth is a multi-step process:
1. The dentist numbs the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic.
2. The dentist uses an air abrasion instrument, drill, or laser to remove the decayed portion of the tooth.
3. The dentist probes and tests the tooth to ensure that the entire decayed portion has been removed.
4. The dentist removes any debris and bacteria from the cavity to prepare it for the filling.
5. If the cavity is near the tooth root, the dentist may place a liner made from composite resin, glass ionomer, or another material to protect the nerve.
6. The dentist places the filling material and then polishes it.
Composite filling procedures take about 20 minutes longer than silver amalgam because of the additional steps involved in placing the material in the cavity. Composite materials are applied in layers, and each layer is hardened with a special light before the next layer is applied. Once all of the layers have been applied and hardened, the dentist shapes, trims, and polishes the restoration.
Brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice per day, flossing once per day, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash once per day is recommended. Schedule dental checkups every six months or when a problem occurs, such as a chipped, broken, or lost filling.
One of the most common issues with fillings is sensitivity to air, pressure, temperature, or sweet foods. For most patients, this goes away after a few weeks. If this issue lasts more than two to four weeks or the tooth is excessively sensitive, patients may need to contact their dentist to discuss treatment options, such as a desensitizing toothpaste or a root canal procedure.
If you have pain around your fillings when you bite, the filling may be interfering with your bite. Your dentist can usually fix this by reshaping the filling. If you are experiencing an achy pain and your cavity was near the pulp of your tooth, your tooth pulp may not be healthy. A root canal treatment may be needed to resolve this pain.
The pressure caused by grinding, chewing, or clenching the teeth can chip, wear or crack fillings. Composite fillings are particularly vulnerable because the material is not as durable as other materials. If the seal between the filling and the tooth enamel breaks down, bacteria and food particles can infiltrate the tooth, causing decay. If the decay is extensive, the dentist may need to replace the filling with a crown.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Turlock, CA
The procedure for placing composite fillings is similar to other types. However, it requires some additional time due to the layering process involved with applying the material. Talk to your dentist about any concerns or questions you have about the process.
Request an appointment or call King Dentistry at 209-585-1474 for an appointment in our Turlock office.
Dental fillings protect oral health by repairing teeth compromised by cavities and decay, preventing further damage, and helping patients maintain comfortable, confident smiles. This essential treatment seals vulnerable areas, supports tooth structure, and stops bacteria from spreading deeper into tooth layers. By addressing cavities early and restoring compromised enamel, dental fillings preserve the longevity of…
If you are self-conscious about your smile because of a damaged or chipped tooth, you should know that a dentist can use dental fillings to quickly correct these minor flaws and restore your smile's appearance.Dental filling application is an in-office technique in which dentists use a tooth-colored resin substance to fix minor flaws in the…
A dental filling is important in achieving good dental health and a painless smile. This dental restoration can seal the tooth and protect it from further decay. Knowing when to get fillings can help you achieve your smile goals earlier. Here are the signs your tooth may need a dental filling right away.Pain often develops…
Dental care plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. General dentists provide various services to help individuals achieve optimal oral health. This blog will explore the most commonly asked questions about general dentists and explain their diverse services.General dentistry is a type of dental care focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating…
It is natural for teeth to discolor over time. If you have noticed that your smile has lost its luster, a general dentist can help. For effective and long-lasting results, get personalized advice and treatment from the dentist in-office. However, there are general steps you can take to improve the whiteness of your smile. Below…