A dental filling is a treatment in which a dentist “fills” a decayed part of a tooth with a replacement material to seal the tooth and prevent further decay. Since bacteria left in the mouth produce an acid that eats away at tooth enamel, sometimes pockets form in a tooth that can compromise its health and cause pain. In many situations, Better Way Dental advocates using versatile, durable, natural-looking composite fillings: they can be used to fill cavities or as bonding agents for repairing cracked or chipped teeth.
What Kinds Of Fillings Are There?
There are several different types of fillings, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Traditional fillings are made of metals such as gold or amalgam; though these fillings are highly durable, they are also highly visible, and concerns have been raised about the presence of harmful trace elements like mercury. Porcelain and ceramic fillings are also available, often referred to as “inlays” or “onlays,” and they are a popular fix for smaller fixes but expensive and less durable. Then there are composite fillings.
Why Composite Fillings?
Composite fillings are the filling of choice at Better Way Dental for several reasons. The resin used can be made to match the color of natural teeth, rendering them virtually unnoticeable. They are also durable and highly resistant to fracture, and though their lifespan is comparable to that of amalgam fillings, they are significantly cheaper. Composite fillings can also usually be fitted in one visit. If you live in Snoqualmie, WA, and are experiencing tooth pain or tooth decay, ask us about composite fillings and we can help you determine whether they are a good solution.
What Is Getting A Filling Like?
Placing a filling is a non-invasive outpatient treatment, and it can usually be performed in one appointment. If needed, the dentist administers a shot of anesthetic to the gum to numb the tooth. The dentist then cleans the decayed areas inside the tooth, which may involve some etching and shaving to sterilize it and make way for the fillings. Using a syringe, the dentist then inserts the composite resin material in layers within the tooth, bonding it each time with a small ultraviolet light. Once the tooth is filled, the dentist examines the patient’s bite and ensures the restoration is comfortable. Routine visits to the dentist for cleanings allow the dentist to keep an eye on the new filling and any spots where there is further tooth decay.
A Better Way Of Doing Dentistry
Most people cannot discern whether they need a filling without the help of a professional, but experienced professionals are nearby if you live in the Washington areas of Snoqualmie, North Bend, and Fall City. Better Way Dental offers comprehensive dental services in a streamlined way: we make it easy to come to the dentist and get most dental needs met in one place, offering everything from general services to cosmetic services and even wisdom teeth removal and orthodontics. We can help identify and address any discomfort or tooth pain, so schedule an appointment by calling (425) 292-9230 or reaching out through our Contact Page. Come experience a Better Way of doing dentistry.