Dental fillings have been administered for decades as a way to help individuals keep their natural teeth. Although many individuals feel that the only use for a dental filling is to fill the space after a cavity has been cleaned out, there are other reasons the professionals at Ashburn Children’s Dentistry may recommend a dental filling.
Discolored Teeth
Some individuals have dental fillings administered because of discolored teeth, which can be caused by coffee, wine, candy, and other acidic beverages. Did you know that grinding your teeth can even cause discoloration?
Fractured Teeth
If you have a fractured tooth, there are times when it can be treated with a white composite filling. There are many reasons that teeth can fracture, such as sports injuries, chewing on hard objects, and an accident. A dental filling can keep the tooth from further damage, and it can help prevent injection. When a fractured tooth becomes infected, there is a risk of losing the tooth completely.
Small Holes
There are times when individuals have small holes in their teeth that are not cavities. However, the small holes can still gather food and bacteria. A dental filling can ensure that these small holes don’t develop into cavities.
Replace Worn Fillings
Even with proper oral care, a dental filling will eventually need to be replaced. There are times when dental fillings can last more than 10 years. However, natural wear can cause the bond between the filling and the tooth to become weak, which can lead to bacteria entering the inside of the tooth.
Temporary Dental Fillings
There are times when a dental professional will administer a temporary filling. This may be required if an individual has a deep cavity and the root is exposed during treatment. A temporary filling can help protect the root and pulp from bacteria until a root canal is administered.
What to Expect During a Dental Filling
Before the filling is administered, the patient will be given local anesthesia to numb the gums and tooth that is being treated. Next, a dentist will remove the decay from the tooth to create a space for the filling. If the filling is bonded, a dentist will treat the tooth with a gel before the filling is placed. There are some types of fillings that require a dentist use a layer of resin that will become hard under a bright light. After the dental filling has beet set, the tooth will be polished.
What Materials are Used for Dental Fillings?
At Ashburn Children’s Dentistry we offer composite fillings that are metal and mercury free. They mimic the appearance of natural teeth so they are hardly noticeable. Not only that but they create a strong bond with the teeth and they will not shrink like metal fillings.
Contact Ashburn Children’s Dentistry in Ashburn, VA to schedule your consultation today!
