Fillings
Dental Fillings
If you have cavities (tooth decay), or cracked, worn or broken teeth, it may be time for a simple dental filling.
When Do I Need a Filling?
A dental filling may be required in order to treat a cavity (a hole in the tooth caused by decay). You should treat a cavity right away so that the tooth does not continue to decay. If it is left untreated, decay will spread to the pulp of the tooth, causing an infection. This may require a root canal! Head off that result by getting cavities treated in a timely manner. It is important to note that a tooth may need a filling EVEN IF IT FEELS FINE! Dental decay can exist in a tooth without the patient ever feeling discomfort. Usually, by the time the patient experiences discomfort, the tooth already needs a root canal.
A filling may also be required to repair a cracked, worn or broken tooth.
What Is a Filling made of?
A filling can be made up of various materials. Newer fillings, made up of ceramic or resin compounds, mimic the appearance of natural teeth. Another type of filling is a dental amalgam (a mixture of metals); this filling often functions extremely well, but will appear less natural within the mouth. It is most common for more natural looking fillings to be used in the front of the mouth where the teeth are more often noticed. If metal fillings, if used at all, will almost always be only in the back of the mouth, on teeth are less likely to be seen.
How Do I Get a Filling?
Typically only one visit to the dentist is required for a filling procedure, although occasionally two visits will be required. When a filling requires only one visit, as is the standard, the process will begin with the removal of all decay from the tooth. A filling will then be placed into the tooth. A more complicated indirect filling, such as a ceramic or (rarely used) gold inlay, would require two visits to the office.
Take a quick trip to Dr. Hadeed’s office in Clinton Township. He will discuss with you cavity prevention as well as what to do if it is time to get a dental filling.