Dental Filling
Ocoee, FL
Here at Classic Smiles, we can provide advice about fillings. Fillings are a procedure used to restore teeth that have been impaired by decay. Our dentists will remove the decayed material within the tooth, clean the affected area, and then proceed to fill the new cavity with new material. By closing off the area, the tooth can return to its previous shape and function and will not have any further decay. Materials commonly used in fillings include porcelain, plastic composite, gold or silver.
Fillings, generally, will not hurt as our dentists use a local anesthetic to ensure there is no discomfort during the procedure. The pain of a decaying tooth is far more painful than the experience of getting a filling.
Types of Fillings
Not one filling fits all, different types of fillings suit different people's needs. The type of filling you will require is usually determined by the size of the area and the extent of repair needed. Gold fillings are custom made in a laboratory and will last for over 20 years. Gold inlays are the most beneficial to those with gum issues but are a more expensive choice that requires more than one visit to the clinic.
Silver Amalgam fillings are relatively inexpensive and long-wearing, but they are not often recommended due to their noticeable dark color. Due to this dark silver color, they are rarely used in visible areas and are more commonly used in the back teeth.
Plastic composite resins are very popular because they match the color of your teeth and leave a natural appearance. The ingredients are combined, mixed and placed directly into the dental cavity, where they firm up. Composites are not the most ideal option when large fillings are required as they may chip or wear down unevenly over time. The other downside to composites is they can easily get stained from coffee, tobacco or wine, and have a shorter life span than other options.
Porcelain fillings are made in a lab before being bonded to the tooth. They can be easily matched to the tooth and are stain-resistant. Porcelain fillings are the option that looks most like natural teeth, but they require multiple visits to the clinic.
A crown or cap is used when the decay has damaged a large area of the tooth. It is usually used in conjunction with root canal therapy and pulp capping.
When Do I Need A Filling?
Our dentist will detect whether you have a cavity that requires a filling during a check-up. Anything that looks abnormal will be examined and closely checked. Our dentists may also x-ray your entire mouth area for further inspection or to see below the surface of your mouth.
A toothache is a common sign you need a tooth filling. Sensitivity to certain temperatures, the feeling of pressure in the mouth and throbbing pains whilst easting are other indicators that you may require a filling. If you don't have any of these symptoms, it is still possible that tooth decay may be present. Smaller holes may exist in your teeth but won't always cause you any pain or discomfort.
If you think you require a filling or want to know more, call the experienced professionals here at Classic Smiles at (407) 378-0139 today! |
