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Did you know that the average person will have to get at least one dental filling during their lifetime? While we do our best to help patients prevent tooth decay, it is a common dental health problem that does occur from time to time. Most patients don’t even know they have a cavity until they visit their dentist for a routine checkup. When a cavity starts producing significant discomfort, it is likely a large area of decay and you may need more than a filling to repair it.
What is a dental filling?
The good news is that cavity repair is relatively easy using a dental filling. A dental filling is a special material that is applied to the affected tooth to restore its function, strength and appearance. Modern dental fillings include composite resin, a preferred material that bonds directly to the tooth and blends seamlessly within your smile due to its tooth-colored shade.
Why are dental fillings needed?
Cavities are essentially areas where your tooth enamel has decayed. These tiny holes in your outermost tooth layer must be filled and repaired so that the decay doesn’t spread further into your tooth. If decay reaches the center of your tooth, you become at risk for infection, severe pain and even tooth loss. To avoid further discomfort and save your tooth, a simple filling is used to restore the tooth back to its original condition.
What happens during a dental filling procedure?
Once a cavity is detected, it is important to remove the decay as soon as possible. Local anesthetics are used to numb the area before using a small dental drill to eliminate the decayed enamel. Afterwards, composite resin or another dental filling material can be used to “fill in” the damaged area of the tooth and restore full functionality and resilience to the affected tooth. This also prevents the tooth from easily chipping or breaking in the future.
Composite resin is always matched to blend with your natural tooth shade. This material is applied in thin layers over the tooth. A special curing light hardens the composite resin after it has been carefully shaped. Overall, getting a dental filling is painless and quick. Don’t delay or neglect this treatment if it is recommended, as a more invasive and more costly procedure may be required down the road.
Do You Need Cavity Repair?
How long has it been since you’ve been to the dentist? Are you experiencing warning signs of a cavity? Schedule your dental visit with Dr. Mitzi Morris today. We promise to use the latest in modern dentistry when repairing and restoring your smile!