Fillings
Dental Fillings
A dental filling is a common treatment used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay, a small fracture, or normal wear. Fillings restore the affected area of the tooth and help return it to its normal shape and function.
At Newmarket Dental Health, we use tooth-coloured filling materials to provide natural-looking restorations that blend with your surrounding teeth.
When Is a Dental Filling Needed?
A filling may be recommended when a tooth has a cavity or other minor damage. Some common signs that you may have a dental problem include:
- A visible hole or area of damage on a tooth
- Dark or discoloured areas
- Food frequently getting caught between or around a tooth
- A chipped or fractured tooth
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Tooth discomfort or pain
However, cavities and other dental problems do not always cause noticeable symptoms. Regular dental examinations allow your dentist to identify problems early, sometimes before you notice anything is wrong.
Your dentist will examine your teeth and may take digital X-rays when necessary to determine whether a filling or another type of treatment is appropriate.
How Is a Dental Filling Done?
The filling procedure will vary depending on the location and extent of the damage.
Generally, the process involves:
- Examination – Your dentist will assess the tooth and determine the extent of the decay or damage.
- Numbing the area – Local anesthetic may be used to keep you comfortable during treatment.
- Removing the decay or damaged tooth structure – The affected area is carefully removed while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
- Placing the filling – The tooth-coloured filling material is placed into the prepared area.
- Shaping and polishing – The filling is shaped to restore the natural contours of the tooth and adjusted to ensure your bite feels comfortable.
Most fillings can be completed in a single appointment, although the length of the appointment will depend on the number and location of the teeth being treated.
Tooth-Coloured Fillings
Tooth-coloured fillings, also known as composite fillings, can be matched to the natural colour of your teeth. They are commonly used to repair cavities and minor damage while maintaining a natural appearance.
Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate type of restoration based on the condition and location of your tooth.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
The lifespan of a filling varies from person to person. Factors such as the size and location of the filling, biting forces, oral hygiene, diet, and general dental health can all affect how long a filling remains in good condition.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental examinations, your dentist can monitor your fillings and identify any signs of wear, leakage, or further decay.
A filling does not make a tooth immune to future decay, so continuing to brush, floss, and maintain regular dental visits is important.
When a Filling Isn't Enough
Not every damaged or decayed tooth can be repaired with a filling. If decay or damage is extensive, your dentist may recommend another treatment, such as a crown or root canal treatment, depending on the condition of the tooth.
Your dentist will discuss the available options with you and explain why a particular treatment is recommended.
Keep Your Teeth Healthy
Early treatment can help prevent a small cavity or area of damage from becoming a more significant dental problem.
At Newmarket Dental Health, we provide dental examinations and restorative treatment to help maintain the health, function, and appearance of your natural teeth.
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