A progressive tooth cavity can erode your tooth enamel, leaving a hole in your tooth. Therefore, looking for a dentist who can perform tooth filling near you is imperative in saving your tooth. This is because there are complications linked to an untreated cavity. In addition, your tooth is weakened by the hole, which increases the risk of your tooth breaking and chipping.
The good news is you can save your natural tooth by going to our dental clinic in Irving, TX 75061 so that the dentist can put a dental filling which involves the removal of the cavity that can spread to your healthy teeth and filling the gap created by the cavity.
We will help you know more about dental fillings and their benefits.
Dental Fillings Procedure
Dental fillings are used to fix broken or cracked teeth. When you go for dental fillings, the dentist will first examine the condition of your tooth and determine whether or not you are a good candidate for dental fillings. Once the dentist concludes that you require dental fillings, they will prepare you for the treatment.
First, the dentist will utilize anesthesia to numb the area they will be working on. After this, air abrasion equipment or laser is used to remove the decayed part of your tooth. The equipment that the dentist uses depends on their skill, which tool they are most comfortable with, and the level of decay.
The dentist will examine if there is any decay left, and after all, the decay has been removed, the dentist will clean the area to remove any debris left. A composite resin or glass ionomer may be used if the decay has spread near the tooth’s root. This is important in protecting the tooth’s nerve.
Once the tooth filling has been made, the dentist will install the filling on the hole and use a UV light to harden the filling. Any excess filling material is trimmed, and polishing is done to make the filling look better.
Types of Dental Fillings
Thanks to modern-day dentistry, several dental fillings can be fixed, depending on the patient’s needs.
1. Composite Dental Fillings
This type of filling is made from resin and plastic material. A composite dental filling is one of the most common options, as it can be made to match the patient’s existing teeth to make the dental filling less conspicuous.
The good thing about composite fillings is they can be placed during one visit and preserves the tooth structure as there is no corrosion.
On the downside, this type of filling is expensive and is not as strong as amalgam fillings.
2. Silver Amalgam Fillings
This is the most common dental filling. Although it is referred to as silver amalgam fillings, they are made from a combination of mercury, zinc, copper, tin, and silver. These filings are common as they are less costly, sturdy, and durable than other dental fillings.
3. Glass Ionomer Fillings
These fillings are fabricated from acrylic and glass. They are suitable for children whose teeth are still forming as they gradually release fluoride to protect the tooth from additional decay. Nevertheless, they are not as durable as composite fillings or as natural-looking.
4. Porcelain Dental Fillings
Porcelain fillings are used to make indirect restorations for on lays, inlays, veneers, and crowns. In addition, they can be combined with metal to create a metallic crown. The good thing about porcelain fillings is that they are suitable for allergic reaction patients.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Below are the advantages of dental fillings:
- The main benefit of dental fillings is slowing the progression of decay.
- Tooth decay creates holes in your teeth, and through dental fillings, the dentist will remove all the decayed area and seal it to prevent the progression of the decay.
- On top of that, dental fillings strengthen fractured teeth. The dentist will use a white composite filling to make this possible.
- Another benefit of dental fillings is improving the structure of your tooth.
- Tooth decay leaves your tooth with a hole, and a filling is used to give your tooth the needed support.
Get Tooth Fillings Near You
Our teeth are prone to decay, especially when there are holes that can trap debris and food particles. Once you visit the Sterling Dental Center, the dentist will seal these holes to prevent the build of decay in these holes. Call us or book an appointment with us to get dental fillings in Irving, TX!