There are different types of dental fillings, including:
- Amalgam Fillings: Amalgam fillings are materials made from a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Amalgam fillings are durable and have been used for many years.
- Composite Fillings: Composite fillings are materials made from a glass or quartz filler mixture in a resin medium. They can match the tooth’s color, making them less noticeable than amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are suitable for small to medium-sized cavities.
Who Needs a Dental Filling
A dental filling becomes necessary when the tooth’s protective layer, the enamel, gets damaged due to decay or cavities. Some symptoms that indicate a person needs a dental filling include:
- Toothache
- Pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods or drinks
- Sensitivity to sweet or sour foods
- Visible pits or holes in the teeth
- Cracks or chips in the teeth
If you experience any of these symptoms, you must make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your tooth.
The Procedure Process
The dental filling procedure is relatively simple, and we can complete it in a single visit to our office. Before the procedure, Dr. Darren Dotson or Dr. Amy Hartzell will discuss the best choice of dental filling for your smile.
To begin the process, Dr. Darren Dotson or Dr. Amy Hartzell will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic to ensure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Then, they will use special tools to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. After that, Dr. Dotson or Dr. Hartzell will fill the cavity with a composite or amalgam filling. They will then shape and polish the filling to match the color and texture of your teeth.
Aftercare
After the filling procedure, taking proper care of your teeth is essential to avoid any further dental issues. Some tips include:
- Avoid eating hard or sticky foods for a few hours following the procedure.
- Try not to chew with the side of your mouth where you received the filling until the anesthesia wears off.
- Maintain daily oral hygiene by brushing and flossing, but be gentle around the filled area.
- Regularly rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help with any potential swelling or discomfort.
- Refrain from consuming hot or cold foods and beverages if your tooth is sensitive after the filling.
- Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks to prevent further decay.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure the filling is intact and functioning correctly.
Dental Fillings in Spirit Lake, IA
Dental fillings are often necessary for restoring a damaged tooth’s health and function. Knowing the symptoms of a decaying tooth is essential to know when to get the care needed for your smile. However, at Hill Avenue Dental, we strongly encourage our patients to receive bi-annual dental appointments to prevent tooth decay from occurring in general. If you are experiencing tooth decay symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Schedule an appointment today!
