What are Dental fillings?
Dental fillings, also called inlays and onlays, are used to fill the area of a tooth where decayed material, such as a cavity, was removed. Dental decay begins first inside the tooth. A white spot appears on the enamel where the tooth has started to weaken inside. If the decay continues and breaks through the surface of the enamel, the damage is permanent. The decay must be cleaned out and the cavity filled. Left untreated, the decay will worsen and destroy a tooth all the way through the outer enamel layer, through the inside dentin layer and down to the pulp or nerve of the tooth.
How do dental fillings work?
Typically, fillings are used to repair decayed areas. In treating cavities, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area. The decay is removed and the cavity is cleaned of bacteria and debris. A tooth-colored material is applied in layers with a special light that hardens each layer as it is applied. When the multi-layering process is complete, excess material is trimmed, the tooth is polished, and proper occlusion is checked for comfort .
Frequently asked questions
+ How long do fillings last?
How long your fillings last depends on a number of factors, including the size of your cavity. A smaller filling means that more of your natural tooth is healthy and will last longer than big fillings. Our office uses composite resin fillings to avoid heavy metal toxicity associated with other types of fillings. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, the average amount of time that many dental fillings last is between five to seven years.
+ How serious are cavities?
Cavities are very serious. Left untreated, a cavity can destroy your tooth and kill the delicate nerves at its center, which may result in an abscess, an area of infection at the root tip. Once an abscess forms, it can only be treated with a root canal, surgery or by extracting the tooth.
+ How do I know if I have a cavity?
Only your dentist can tell for sure whether you have a cavity. That's because cavities develop below the tooth's surface, where you can't see them. Cavities are most likely to develop in pits on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, in between teeth, and near the gumline. Regardless of where they occur, the best way to spot them and treat them before they become serious is by visiting your dentist regularly for checkups.
+ How can I prevent cavities?
To prevent your teeth from decaying, you can do two things — strengthen your teeth's defenses with fluoride and sealants, and reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth. Although you can never get rid of all the bacteria in your mouth, you can control bacteria by brushing regularly and flossing daily, seeing your dentist and dental hygienist regularly for a thorough cleaning and check-up, and reducing the number of times each day that you eat.
Schedule an appointment today to determine if a dental filling can help make your smile healthier
