A dental filling will not last forever, but it can last for over 20 years when properly maintained. Factors like how well the patient takes care of their teeth and the materials that make up the filling often determine how durable any repairs will be.
Fillings are materials used to seal the holes created by tooth decay. The filling is inserted into the affected tooth and hardens with exposure to air, saliva or curing light. The application of a dental filling is one of the more affordable treatments performed by family dentists, and it takes less than an hour to complete the process.
Cavities are created when oral bacteria convert food particles into acids that eat away at teeth surfaces. Over time, this leads to the formation of holes caused cavities. These holes leave the inner, more sensitive layers of teeth exposed, leading to toothaches, increased sensitivity and food particles getting stuck in these holes.
The installation of a dental filling starts with the dentist thoroughly examining the patient's damaged teeth. Extensive damage caused by tooth decay might require other solutions, like onlays/inlays or a crown.
The dentist may perform a visual examination of the patient's teeth and use X-rays to examine underneath their gums.
The process of applying dental filling to a tooth starts with the dentist injecting the area around the damaged tooth with a local anesthetic. This prevents the patient from feeling pain as the dentist works on their teeth.
The dentist will then remove decayed material from any teeth that have been damaged by decay. The area is then cleaned and dried. The filling material is added directly to the tooth, and most harden on contact with air or saliva. Fillings made with composite resins need to be hardened with ultraviolet light.
Dental fillings are usually made out of materials like:
Ready to put tooth decay behind you? Call or visit our Torrance clinic to learn more about how dental fillings can stop tooth decay in its tracks.
Request an appointment here: https://www.shawnaomiddds.com or call Shawna Omid, DDS at (310) 362-4425 for an appointment in our Torrance office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Torrance, CA.
Cavities, also known as caries or tooth decay, form when plaque eats away at the enamel that covers the teeth’s outer surfaces, so it is essential to see the dentist immediately for a dental filling or other treatment alternatives if you suspect cavities on your teeth. Cavities may spread and harm the sensitive tissue and…
A cosmetic dentist is a dental professional who helps patients improve the confidence they have in their smile by addressing anything that may make them feel insecure. Examples of concerns patients often have about their smiles are stained teeth, misaligned teeth, short or uneven teeth, and more. This guide provides four questions you can ask…
Gum disease affects more than half of all adults in the United States, according to the International Journal of Health Sciences, and there are different forms of the condition. Gum disease is prevalent and one of the major causes of tooth loss. Therefore, it helps to understand the various stages of gum disease and its…
A dental crown is a device used to restore the functions and look of a tooth that has been damaged. If you need a root canal, a fractured tooth, or a big filling, your dentist may also decide to place a dental crown. The new crown covers the part of the tooth visible above the…