In the United States, more than one in four adults have tooth decay. When left untreated, decay can lead to holes in your teeth, gum disease, dental abscesses, and even tooth loss. Thankfully, there is an easy solution to tooth decay- dental fillings!
If you are getting a dental filling for the first time, it is normal to feel nervous. This article will outline the steps involved in a cavity filling procedure, which will ease your mind and help you see that there is no reason to worry!
1. Numbing the Area
You don’t have to worry about the procedure being painful! After arriving at the dentist’s office, your dentist will inject local anesthesia into your gum. You’ll feel a little pinch, which may be uncomfortable, but it ensures that you won’t feel anything during the procedure.
After a few minutes, the anesthesia should take full effect, and the dentist will check that the area is numb before proceeding.
2. Removing Tooth Decay
This step is crucial for cleaning out and removing tooth decay. Your dentist will use a drill for a few minutes, and after, they will sterilize the area.
If you feel nervous because of the sound of the drill, you can ask the dentist to listen to music with headphones.
3. Inserting the Filling
The next step is inserting the filling. There are many different types of filling materials, including:
- Composite resin
- Gold
- Amalgam
- Glass ionomer
The most common type of filling is composite resin since it looks natural and matches the color of your tooth. If your dentist uses this material, they will apply it in thin layers and harden it with ultraviolet light. You can learn more about here.
Amalgam fillings are silver in color and less expensive than composite. However, they are not as common these days due to concerns about mercury toxicity.
Another type of filling is gold, which is very durable. However, it is not the best material for visible fillings since it is very noticeable. Moreover, gold fillings are quite expensive and take several visits to cast and place in your mouth.
Lastly, a glass ionomer may create a temporary filling or fill a baby tooth.
If you prefer a specific type of filling, let your dentist know! They can explain to you the pros and cons of each type in depth.
4. Polishing
The last step in the procedure is making sure that the tooth is smooth and polished. Your doctor will also check your bite to ensure that you can chew properly and that the filling is hitting the opposing teeth comfortably.
Caring for Your Dental Filling
Your dental filling should last around thirty years, depending on the material. However, its durability largely depends on how well you care for your dental hygiene.
Remember to floss, brush your teeth often, and visit your hygienist for deep cleaning at least once a year. By following these tooth care steps, you’ll not only prolong the life of your filling but also avoid tooth decay and other dental issues!
Did you enjoy this informative post? If so, check out more of our content related to dental care!
