What is a filling?
Over time, tooth decay can damage vulnerable spots on your teeth until small holes, or cavities, appear. These cavities are breeding grounds for bacteria, and over time the decay process can accelerate and lead to complications, including infections in your gums or the roots of your teeth. To stop the spread of decay, these cavities must be cleared of decay and closed off. That’s where dental fillings come in.
Dental fillings are one of the most popular treatments for cavities and can restore your tooth’s appearance and function, while also stopping the spread of the decay. Dental fillings are made of various materials like gold, silver amalgam, plastic, or porcelain.
How do I know if I need a filling?
Only your dentist can tell you for certain if a dental filling is the best treatment for your tooth decay, but you can look out for some telltale signs of decay and cavities. While a cavity may not present symptoms at first, you may begin to notice:
- A toothache
- Tooth sensitivity, especially when eating or drinking very hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages
- Visible holes, pits, or cavities in your teeth
- Brown, black, or white stains on the surface of your teeth
- Pain when biting down
While you may be able to notice these signs on your own, cavities often only present symptoms once they’re quite advanced. Regular visits to CaliDental for dental checkups are the most reliable way to monitor tooth decay.
What should I expect when I get a dental filling?
Dental fillings are usually performed with local anesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake, but the area around your affected tooth will be numbed. Your dentist at CaliDental will then use a dental drill to remove any decay from the area around your cavity. You’ll likely feel some vibration during this.
There are a number of materials that can be used to create your filling, and CaliDental offers patients all the most popular options. Traditional fillings, made of gold and silver amalgam, are a time-tested option, while tooth-colored fillings made of plastic, composite, or porcelain offer a subtler, more natural appearance.
For more information on dental fillings, call the staff at CaliDental to make an appointment, or book one online with the scheduling tool.
