Dental Fillings

Cavities are one of the most prominent oral concerns, especially among children. They are the direct results of the erosion and decay of the enamel by the microbes that get deposited on the teeth in the form of tartar. Although maintaining optimum oral hygiene and getting tartar removed at regular intervals through dental cleanings is the best way to keep cavities away, it is crucial to get them treated at the earliest to avoid further complications. 

What are fillings?

Fillings are tooth restorations used to fill cavities and restore the contour and structural integrity of decayed teeth. A few years ago, metal fillings made from gold, silver, or amalgam were the go-to materials to make fillings. However, they posed several drawbacks, such as displeasing aesthetics, risk of toxic infections, etc. But now, they have been replaced by aesthetically pleasing tooth-colored fillings made from dental-grade ceramic or composite resin.

What are the advantages of tooth-colored fillings?

• White fillings are highly customizable. They can be prepared as required to match the exact color of the teeth, thereby keeping them under disguise.
• They are biocompatible. Unlike amalgam fillings, they do not cause any toxic reactions to the natural tissues of the teeth or surrounding gums.
• They offer impressive durability and longevity.
• White fillings can be shaped perfectly, which also gives them excellent sealing properties. They keep the oral bacteria from entering the cavity and causing reinfection.
• They are pretty simple to prepare and apply to the teeth. In most instances, fillings can be completed in a single visit to the dentist's practice.

How are fillings done?

The dentist will visually examine your mouth to check for cavities. Not all cavities require fillings, especially if they haven't eroded the enamel significantly. In such cases, the dentist will simply remove the tartar deposits and decay from the cavity by ultrasonic scaling. The removed debris will be washed off using a jet of water. But, if the cavity is profound, it has to be restored using fillings to keep it from affecting the tooth severely.

We will remove the decay from the tooth by ultrasonic scaling. In case the cavity seems deep, we may take x-rays to determine its severity. The filling will be prepared by matching it with the color of the tooth. The cavity will be etched to roughen its surface so that the filling adheres to it well. The filling will be applied, shaped as required, and hardened using a curing light. The filling will be trimmed if necessary after taking a bite test and polished to enhance its appearance.

Please get in touch with us through online consultation or by calling us at 407-647-3223, and we'll guide you further.