Even if you brush your teeth and floss every day, there is still a chance that decay can develop. While visiting the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning can help minimize the chances of cavities, a dental filling is the most common solution if a cavity does develop.
What Is A Filling?
A filling is what your dentist places into your tooth after they remove decay. This maintains its structural integrity and helps make sure it stays strong and doesn’t suffer any more. The procedure begins with your dentist numbing the affected area and then drilling into your tooth’s enamel to remove the decay. From there, we carefully shape the hole so it can receive the filling. After it is prepared and cleaned, we place the filling in your tooth and then finish and polish it so it fits seamlessly and doesn’t feel out of place in your mouth. It is important to get a filling as soon as possible, so the decay doesn’t worsen, needing a more invasive procedure like root canal treatment.
What Are They Made With?
There are several materials used for fillings, and they each serve a different purpose. Metal fillings, for instance, are typically made with gold or silver amalgam and usually go on molars in the back of your mouth. They are placed there because they offer more support for chewing, and since metal fillings are more noticeable, they are better suited for the back of your mouth. Composite resin fillings blend in with your existing teeth with a tooth-colored mixture of acrylic and quartz particles. They can conform to the hole your dentist drills very closely, which makes them fit tightly in place. Similarly, ceramic fillings provide a close fit and look very similar to your existing teeth.
Schedule An Appointment To Learn More About Fillings
If you have questions about fillings, please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Call Alba Dental Care in El Paso, TX, at (915) 286-ALBA (2522). We also serve the Horizon community.
