If you need a dental filling, you may experience toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when biting or chewing, visible holes or dark spots on your teeth, and chipped or broken teeth. These symptoms indicate that your tooth structure is compromised and needs repair.
Causes: You might need a dental filling if you have cavities caused by tooth decay. Other causes include cracked or broken teeth, worn-down teeth from nail-biting or tooth-grinding, and damage from trauma. These issues can compromise the integrity of your teeth and require restorative treatment.
Procedure by Our Dentist: Our dentist will perform the dental filling procedure in a few steps. First, we numb the area around the affected tooth with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Next, we remove the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth using a drill or laser. After cleaning the cavity, we fill it with a suitable material, such as composite resin, amalgam, or gold. Finally, we shape and polish the filling to ensure it fits perfectly with your bite and looks natural.
Duration of Procedure: The dental filling procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cavity. More complex cases may take longer, especially if multiple fillings are needed.
Recovery Time: You can expect a quick recovery from a dental filling procedure. You might experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort for a few days, which you can manage with over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods immediately after the procedure to allow the filling to set correctly.
Benefits: Dental fillings offer numerous advantages, including restoring the function and integrity of your tooth, preventing further decay, and alleviating pain and discomfort. Fillings also help maintain the natural appearance of your teeth and support overall oral health.
How to Avoid Needing Fillings: To minimize the need for dental fillings, practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Avoid consuming excessive sugary foods and drinks, and refrain from chewing on hard objects like ice or pens. Addressing dental issues promptly can prevent the need for more extensive treatments like fillings.
You can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile by following these guidelines and seeking timely dental care. If you need a dental filling or have any concerns about your dental health, don’t hesitate to contact our office at 978-694-9300 for a consultation.
A crown is a tooth shaped cap that covers the natural tooth in order to strengthen it so that the tooth does not fracture, or make the tooth more cosmetically pleasing. This is commonly done when the tooth has been weakened due to root canal treatment, tooth fracture, when there is not enough healthy tooth structure to hold in a larger filling, or to cover staining. Crown materials include gold, ceramics, porcelain, or a combination of metal and porcelain. The office may use an outside dental lab in fabricating the crown restoration.