You may be hesitant to admit it, but you’ve been skipping out on your routine visits with your dentist. You’ve always wondered why checkups and cleanings are necessary when you’re diligent about brushing and flossing every day. Dental decay is one of the most common oral health issues. It’s easily preventable, in fact, your dentist can catch and treat this issue with dental fillings in San Antonio before it progresses into something more serious. Learn what a filling is, and how it can save you from losing a tooth and restore your oral health.
What is a Dental Filling?
Most dentists that utilize the latest resources in their field treat dental decay and cavities with composite tooth-colored fillings. They’re fine blends of plastic and glass that are virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth. They fill and support the structure of your damaged tooth and protect it from further decay and harmful oral bacteria.
What are the Benefits of Getting a Tooth-Colored Filling?
Professionals typically use tooth-colored resin to fill your cavity instead of amalgam fillings for many reasons. Because many patients’ oral tissues are sensitive to metal, or they have an allergy, composite resin is widely accepted as a safer way to treat cavities and decay. Some other reasons that dentists prefer tooth-colored fillings to metal ones include:
- Amalgam fillings contain mercury, so composite resin is a safer alternative.
- They are practically unnoticeable, so patients can enjoy a natural-looking smile.
- Because metal expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations, it can cause tooth sensitivity. Composite resin is bonded to your teeth and made of a gentler material, so you won’t have to worry about discomfort.
- Composite fillings don’t require any alterations to your tooth’s structure to be placed.
What is the Purpose of Getting a Filling?
Dental fillings can help you avoid a trip to your emergency dentist in San Antonio by preventing a small problem like a cavity, from turning into something harder to treat, like an infected tooth. When cavities are caught early, you can preserve your aesthetically pleasing grin along with your oral health. This procedure is also fast and easy.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Filling?
Once your dentist determines that you need a filling to repair any dental decay, they’ll ensure you’re comfortable. If you suffer from any kind of dental anxiety, you can always ask about sedation options or numbing as well. They’ll clear any decay from your damaged tooth and clean it before placing the tooth-colored resin to fill it. They’ll use a special lamp to cure the filling and file it down to make your bite even. After that, they’ll polish your teeth and send you on your way with your improved and healthy smile!
Getting a filling may seem like a hassle, but it’s nothing compared to the headaches an untreated cavity will cause you down the road. Save yourself time and money by scheduling your checkup and cleaning with your dentist today and get the treatment you need before more serious problems arise!
About the Author
Dr. Racha Kadamani has nearly two decades of experience improving her patients’ oral health. As an active member of multiple professional organizations, she strives to keep up to date with the latest advancements in her field so she can provide her patients with the latest treatments and techniques. She’s also passionate about giving her patients the knowledge and tools they need to prevent oral health problems from arising and keep their oral health in the best shape. For questions or to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning, visit Laith Family Dentistry’s website or contact 210-782-0008.
