Restoring Tooth Health
Dental fillings, a prevalent restorative dental treatment, are used to mend damage caused by cavities or other oral health problems. The material used for the filling is determined by the location and severity of the damage, as well as your overall oral health. If cavities are not addressed, they can expand and necessitate more invasive treatments like root canals.
The function of dental fillings is to seal the damaged tooth area to prevent further decay. The filling material is initially placed into the cavity and then hardened with a special light. This procedure aids in restoring the tooth's strength and structure and can also enhance its appearance.
When is a dental filling necessary?
Should you feel any discomfort or sensitivity in a particular part of your tooth, it might indicate tooth decay. This symptom acts as a warning for you and your dentist about possible problems like a cavity, a cracked tooth, or excessive tooth wear. To confirm if you have a cavity, we will carry out a series of tests, among others:
Evaluation through observation
Touching/Examining
X-rays
The tests will lead to a diagnosis and a plan for treatment. For small cavities, it might be recommended to monitor the situation. However, if the cavity is serious, painful, or situated in a difficult-to-access area, a filling is usually recommended.
During the filling process, the decayed part of the tooth is initially eliminated. Following this, a filling is inserted into the cavity, providing defense against potential decay in the future.