Make Teeth Look And Feel Natural Again
Dental fillings are one of the most common procedures performed in our office. They are used to restore and repair teeth, helping to prevent painful decay or infections that could lead to the need for more intensive treatments. To maintain a natural appearance, we use composite resin fillings, which are carefully colour-matched to your teeth. Unlike traditional metal (amalgam) fillings, tooth-coloured composite resin bonds tightly to the tooth and is effective in sealing even the smallest gaps, reducing the need for excessive drilling.
Why Are Fillings So Important?
It’s not uncommon for people to feel hesitant about getting a dental filling. Some may delay treatment or question its necessity, particularly if the affected tooth isn’t currently causing pain. However, addressing cavities promptly with a filling is essential, and here’s why:
- Stop cavities from worsening: Filling cavities early prevents them from enlarging and leading to more severe dental issues.
- Avoid infections or abscesses: If left untreated, cavities can result in painful infections or abscesses that may require more invasive procedures.
- Restore tooth strength: Cavities weaken the tooth structure, and fillings help restore its durability and function.
- Save money in the long run: Early treatment with a filling can prevent the need for more costly and complex dental work later.
- Reduce sensitivity: Cavities often cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. A filling can eliminate this discomfort, improving your overall comfort.
- Preserve your natural teeth: Promptly treating cavities with fillings helps maintain your natural teeth and keeps your smile healthy and attractive.
In conclusion, while getting a filling might seem inconvenient, it’s an essential step in protecting your dental health, preventing further complications, and preserving your smile for years to come.
How is a Cavity Filled?
Gentle Freezing
We start by numbing your gums to prepare for freezing the area around the tooth. While this step can make some people anxious, the freezing ensures the tooth and surrounding area are fully numb, so you’ll feel little to no discomfort during the process.
Filling the Tooth
Once the area is completely numb, the tooth is cleaned and prepared for the filling. A bonding gel is applied to the surface, followed by composite resin, which is carefully moulded and shaped to fit the tooth’s natural contours and bite alignment.
Curing the Composite
The composite resin is hardened using a specialised LED light. After it has cured, the dentist will examine the tooth, make any necessary adjustments, and polish it for a smooth, natural appearance.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits, fillings can remain in excellent condition for well over ten years.
Dental amalgam, often called “silver” or “mercury” fillings, was widely used in the past for tooth restorations. While there has been some debate regarding their safety, the Canadian Dental Association states that scientific evidence does not confirm any connection between amalgam fillings and health problems in the general population. If you have these fillings, there is no cause for alarm!
Temporary over-the-counter products are available to fill cavities or minor tooth damage until you can visit your dentist. However, these are not permanent solutions and cannot replace professional treatment. Cavities are a form of permanent tooth damage that require cleaning, preparation, and filling by a dentist. Ignoring dental decay can lead to more serious issues, such as abscesses or tooth loss.
If severe pain is disrupting your ability to eat or sleep, it may be a dental emergency. We recommend calling our office right away for advice and a prompt appointment. To manage the pain temporarily, you can apply a cold compress to the affected area of your face. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may also help. Be sure to follow the instructions on the medication and record the type, dosage, and time taken so you can inform us during your visit.
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