Dental Fillings 101
By: Jessica Stack | Friday, January 15th, 2016 | Dental Fillings
Friday, January 15th, 2016
Dental fillings are commonly used to correct dental problems and restore function to your teeth. Keep reading to learn more about this common solution.
When are dental fillings needed?
Dental fillings are used in conjunction with a variety of treatments. They are used as part of root canal therapy and to treat cavities. Fillings can also be used to correct cracked or broken teeth, or to restore teeth that have been worn down by bruxism.
Why are dental fillings important?
If damage to your teeth isn’t corrected, you could permanently lose a tooth or problems could escalate and spread to other teeth and to your gums. Dental fillings fix problems before they become worse and make your teeth functional again.
Which type of dental filling should you choose?
The right type of dental filling for you depends on your teeth, your budget, and your personal preferences. Your dentist can help you evaluate your options. In most cases, fillings are either amalgam (a mix of metals), resin, or porcelain.
Amalgam fillings can be more affordable, but they are more noticeable since they do not match the color of the rest of your teeth. Resin fillings are similar to normal tooth color so they blend in while correcting problems and fixing the tooth structure. Porcelain fillings are used for inlays and have the highest aesthetic value.
Talk to your dentist about your preferences and budget in order to choose a filling that is best for you.
What is the procedure like?
The dental filling procedure usually starts with local anesthetic to numb the area and prevent pain. Then the decayed part of the tooth will be removed and the rest of the tooth will be cleaned. Last, the filling material you’ve chosen will be put into your tooth to give it a natural shape and prevent future infections.
Dental fillings can help to save your tooth and make it look and feel normal again. If you’d like to learn more about dental fillings and other procedures that can keep your teeth healthy, schedule an appointment with Dr. Stephen Price.
