Dental fillings are effective means of restoring damaged or decayed teeth back to its normal function and shape. Getting a filling would involve removal of the decayed tooth material, cleaning the affected area, and filling the cleaned out cavity with the filling material. Closing such spaces can prevent the entry of bacteria and further decay.
Types of dental filling
The type of filing that suites you the best would be decided by your dentist. However, there are many types of dental fillings to choose from.
Porcelain fillingsThese fillings are generally termed as inlays and onlays and are bonded to the tooth. Porcelain fillings can be closely made to match the color of your natural teeth. These fillings would be able to cover most the tooth and is resistant to staining.
Composite ResinsComposite fillings are a combination of several ingredients that are mixed and placed directly into the cavity. Once placed they would be hardened. A composite filling may not be the ideal choice for large fillings as they would have the tendency to chip or wear with time.
Amalgam fillingsAmalgam or silver fillings, regardless of their dark color, are known to be resistant to wear. These fillings are more noticeable and would not be recommended in the visible areas of the patient’s teeth.
Procedure
- Administering local anesthesiaThe procedure would begin by administering a local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth.
- Removal of tooth decayThe dentist cuts through the enamel and removes any decay, clearing room to receive the filling.
- EtchingThe dentist would etch the tooth with an acid gel before placing a filling.
- Resin applicationDepending on the type of the filling, the dentist would apply a layer of resin material and harden it by using a UV light.
- PolishingPost application of the filling, the dentist would polish the tooth.
In case any decay or broken teeth (due to a fracture) has led to a large damage, a dental crown or cap would be ideal method of restoring the damaged tooth. If any decay must have reached a damaged nerve, it can be treated with a root canal or through a procedure termed as pulp capping.
To find out more about dental fillings, request an appointment with us at Tahoe Dental Arts, today. Call us at (530) 541-8229 or schedule an appointment online.
