Repair Tooth Damage and Restore Oral Health with Dental Fillings
When you want to maintain a healthy smile and good oral hygiene visit Swanson Family Dental twice annually. This way you have the best chance of protecting your smile from decay. Cavities can still sneak up into your smile through diet and changes in routine. If they do, dental fillings can repair the damage and prevent the need for advanced restorative treatments. Stop decay and restore your tooth’s function with composite dental fillings placed by our dentists.
How are tooth fillings placed?
The procedure is quick and painless. The dentist inspects your tooth to determine the extent of decay/damage. If it’s only a filling that is needed, the dentist numbs your teeth with local anesthetics to maximize your comfort.
Next, the dentist will gently remove the decayed/damaged portions of the tooth, leaving a healthy structure. Then, we’ll carefully fill your tooth with layered composite resin. Next, we’ll reshape the filling to ensure it blends seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. The dentist will use a special curing light to harden the filling. We’ll make a few last-minute adjustments to your filling to ensure your bite feels natural. That’s it! Your cavity will be gone, and your tooth will chew or bite without pain or sensitivity.
After treatment, you can resume your everyday routine. Do not chew or consume hot foods and drinks until the numbness from the anesthesia wears off. This prevents accidentally biting or burning your soft tissues.
What are the benefits of composite fillings?
Dental fillings can be created from several materials, including amalgam. However, we prefer composite fillings because they offer the following benefits:
- Aesthetics: Composite fillings are created from tooth-colored materials, which provide natural-looking outcomes.
- Safety: Tooth-colored fillings are created from finely ground glass and acrylic plastic. These materials are biocompatible and safe for use in the mouth. Composite fillings don’t contain mercury or other harmful substances synonymous with metal fillings.
- Durability: With proper care, white fillings can last many years. They are a long-lasting solution for tooth decay.
- Conservative procedure: We’ll remove a minimal amount of the enamel to place white fillings. Preserving as much of the healthy structure keeps your tooth structurally strong for many years.
Better protection: Composite bonds seamlessly with your tooth, which keeps the tooth airtight against future bacterial attacks.
How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan of a dental filling can vary based on its location, lifestyle habits, and oral hygiene practices. However, most composite fillings last well beyond five years. In fact, many patients have fillings that remain in excellent condition for 10 years or more with proper care.
Observe the following tips to ensure your fillings last long.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth
- Floss your teeth at least once daily
- Visit your dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings
- Protect your teeth with a customized nightguard if you are a toothgrinder
- Avoid smoking and reduce the intake of staining foods and drinks
Observing the above tips preserves your dental filling and prevents new cavities from forming.
Do you need cavity treatment?
Are you interested in dental fillings in Ames or Perry, IA? Call (515) 233-2174 or (515) 465-5170 to restore your smile with high-quality dental fillings from Swanson Family Dental. We can’t wait to help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile.
