Fillings

Importance of Dental Fillings

The Purpose of Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are crucial in treating cavities and preventing further tooth decay or damage. By removing decayed or damaged portions of the tooth, our dentists can rebuild the tooth’s structure and seal the area with a durable filling material. This prevents the cavity from progressing to the tooth’s center, where a more extensive treatment like a root canal may be required. Dental fillings also address chips, breaks, and cracks, strengthening and protecting the tooth structure.

Importance of Timely Dental Fillings

Addressing cavities in their early stages is essential to prevent more extensive and costly treatments in the future. Treating a small cavity with a dental filling is more affordable and less invasive compared to addressing a larger cavity that may require a root canal. By opting for timely dental fillings, patients can avoid pain, complications, and the need for more extensive procedures.

The Dental Filling Process

Six Steps in Placing Dental Fillings

Our experienced dentists follow a systematic approach when placing dental fillings to ensure optimal results and patient comfort. The six steps involved in the dental filling process include:

• Numbing the tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure a painless procedure.
• Removing decayed or damaged portions of the tooth to create space for the filling.
• Preparing the tooth surface for bonding by cleaning and disinfecting it thoroughly.
• Applying the chosen filling material and carefully bonding it to the tooth.
• Curing the filling material with a specialized light to promote hardening and durability.
• Shaping and polishing the filling to achieve a smooth and natural-looking surface.

At Fort Washington Dental Associates, we prioritize our patient’s comfort throughout the dental filling. Our dentistry team takes exceptional care to ensure the procedure is as quick, painless, and stress-free as possible. We utilize effective numbing techniques and advanced materials to minimize discomfort and deliver optimal results.

Types of Dental Fillings

Temporary Fillings

Temporary fillings are temporary solutions used in specific situations, such as when a more permanent restoration is being fabricated or when additional treatments are planned. These fillings offer short-term protection and allow for the completion of comprehensive dental care.

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings, or tooth-colored fillings, are made of a mixture of resin and glass or quartz materials. They blend seamlessly with the natural tooth color, providing an aesthetically pleasing result. Composite fillings are suitable for small to medium-sized cavities and offer durability and natural-looking results.

Porcelain/Ceramic Fillings

Porcelain fillings, also known as inlays or onlays, are custom-made restorations crafted in a dental laboratory. These fillings are excellent for moderate to large cavities and provide superior strength and durability. Porcelain fillings closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth, offering an aesthetic and long-lasting solution.

Silver or Amalgam Fillings

Silver or amalgam fillings are a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, copper, and tin. They have been used for many years and offer durability and strength. While silver fillings are less common nowadays, they may still be recommended for specific cases.

Dental fillings are vital in treating cavities, repairing damaged teeth, and preventing oral health issues. At Fort Washington Dental Associates, our skilled dentistry team is committed to providing efficient, painless, and effective dental filling procedures. Patients can safeguard their teeth, prevent decay, and avoid more extensive and costly treatments by opting for timely dental fillings. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience our personalized care and commitment to your oral health.