Dental Fillings & Cavity Treatment

Cavities can be extremely painful, and lead to other dental conditions like inflammation of the gum, tooth loss, and abscesses. That’s why it’s so important to treat cavities as early as possible, using a dental filling.

What Are Cavities?

From a young age, we’re all told to clean and floss our teeth regularly to prevent cavities. This is because tooth decay is caused by acid produced by bacteria in the mouth. By maintaining teeth diligently, you can minimize the bacteria present in your mouth, thus decreasing the amount of acid present and reducing the risk of developing tooth decay.

Unfortunately, despite your best efforts, cavities can still form. These usually start as small spots of decay that we will find as part of your usual checkup. It’s best to begin the treatment process as soon as signs of a cavity are present.

What Are Fillings?

A tooth-coloured filling is for patients who suffer from tooth decay and wish to retain the natural appearance of their teeth. Because they are white rather than silver, tooth-coloured fillings make it nearly impossible for others to tell that you’ve had any dental work done.

There are several different materials that are used to make fillings. These include gold, silver amalgam, composite resin, and porcelain. The materials used for fillings are chosen for their durability, adhesion to the tooth, and sometimes for appearance.

The tooth-coloured resin is first applied in layers and hardened using a high-intensity light. The dentist then shapes the material to the exact contour of your tooth. The procedure is complete after the dentist polishes the tooth to prevent premature wear or staining.

The composite resin may help reinforce tooth structure and it helps to insulate the tooth against extreme changes in temperature, which means that you will be able to enjoy your favourite beverages without pain or discomfort.

What Are The Benefits Of Fillings?

The main benefit of fillings is that they repair damage caused by tooth decay. Of course, good maintenance of teeth after fillings have been fitted is key to getting the most out them, and preventing further decay.

Fillings can also help to restore strength in a tooth that has been too sore or sensitive to use. Many of us are familiar with the sharp pain of aggravating a sensitive tooth. Fillings help you to restore full function of your mouth, without the nagging pain!

They can also help to improve the appearance of teeth. Sometimes, tooth decay can turn dark, or cavities can become large. This can really dent confidence in your smile. Fillings can make you feel good about your teeth again!

How Are Fillings Fitted?

We will begin by checking your teeth thoroughly and taking x-rays of your mouth to look for any irregularities or potential complications. Once you have decided to move ahead with fillings, we’ll begin the process of preparing any affected teeth.

Once the tooth is prepared, we will place the filling, polish and finish it, and you’ll be ready to enjoy your new smile!

Does It Hurt To Have Fillings?

We’ll use a local anesthetic to prevent pain during the procedure. You may feel discomfort after the anesthetic has worn off, but this can be managed with basic analgesics. You may also experience some sensitivity, which should decrease within two weeks.

Preventing Bigger Problems

People often hesitate to get fillings. However, waiting can be a mistake that costs you a tooth. By preventing further tooth decay, fillings can help keep your teeth healthy. They keep cavities from taking over and, ultimately, may help save your tooth.

If you’re ready to keep your tooth decay from getting out of control, contact us at Dentistry on Danforth.