New Year: Let’s Get Dental Filling

Dental decay is the most common dental problem. It is caused by bacteria reacting with food particles forming acids that erode the enamel. Cavities are preventable, but they are still one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Thankfully, they are treatable.

One of the most common treatments for decay is dental fillings. In this blog, we will discuss dental fillings in detail, hoping the information will help you make an informed decision.

What is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling treatment is procedure for dental cavities that uses materials such as amalgam and porcelain to fill holes caused by decay. The procedure is often restorative, but it can also be used for cosmetic purposes.

Types of Dental Fillings

Not so long ago, there was only one type of filling material. This material is silver (amalgam). Now, there are several types of fillings, including:

Porcelain Fillings

Porcelain fillings are often made as ordered by patients. They are made in the dental clinic lab and are aesthetic and long-lasting. Typically, they are designed to match the color of your teeth. Unfortunately, they are slightly more expensive than amalgam fillings. But don’t you think it is okay to invest in your dental health? Furthermore, porcelain fillings are always worth the price.

Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam fillings are the most common. They are durable, strong, and cheap. However, they are not as aesthetic as porcelain fillings. For that reason, we often recommend them for back teeth.

Gold Fillings

Gold fillings are the most durable. They are noticeable as amalgam, but most people like it like that since gold is classy. A gold filling treatment can last for up to 20 years. However, it is relatively expensive. You should be prepared for that.

Composite Resin

Composite resin has become quite popular in recent years, and it is because of its affordability. It is quite cheap and as aesthetic as porcelain. However, the material is susceptible to chips and breaks. That’s why we recommend it for front teeth since they don’t do a lot of chewing like back teeth.

Why Has Dental Fillings Become So Popular?

The reason dental fillings have become so popular is that they come with many benefits. These benefits include:

Aesthetic

Since the introduction of composite resin and porcelain fillings, the treatment has become quite popular. The options give the dentist the opportunity to design fillings matching the color of your teeth. Once placed, no one will know you had holes on your teeth.

Quick Treatment

Unlike some dental procedures that take several dental visits, the dental filling procedure is quite fast. Typically, it takes about 60 minutes per tooth. You won’t need to spend hours in the dental clinic for one tooth. Furthermore, the treatment is painless, thanks to sedation. Sometimes the dentist may not even need to use sedation, especially when repairing a chipped tooth.

Durable

Depending on the type of dental filling, the treatment can last for up to 20 years. For example, if you choose gold fillings, you can be sure it will last for up to 20 years, if not more. Even the least durable composite resin lasts for more than five years. Considering its cost, it is worth it.

However, you will need to help your treatment last longer. You can help it by maintaining proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss, use a mouthwash, and visit the dentist every six months. Dr. Brown is here for you if you are looking for a pediatric dentist in Martinsville.

Versatile

Dental fillings are used for more than repair decayed teeth. They are also used to repair broken and chipped teeth.

Less Invasive

The dentist will not need to change the structure of your natural tooth. He will just add to it and maintain its shape.

Are There Other Treatments for Cavities?

Yes. Dental fillings are the most common treatment for cavities, but if the cavity is too severe, the dentist may suggest a root canal therapy. In most cases, a root canal will save your natural tooth. If it fails, the dentist may have to extract the tooth to prevent the cavity from spreading to the surrounding teeth.

Kids First Dental (Martinsville)

If you need dental fillings in Martinsville, you are in the right place. We use state-of-the-art technology, and you can count on our experience. Book an appointment now.