A dental filling will not last forever, but it can last for over 20 years when properly maintained. Factors like how well the patient takes care of their teeth and the materials that make up the filling often determine how durable any repairs will be.
Fillings are materials used to seal the holes created by tooth decay. The filling is inserted into the affected tooth and hardens with exposure to air, saliva or curing light. The application of a dental filling is one of the more affordable treatments performed by family dentists, and it takes less than an hour to complete the process.
Cavities are created when oral bacteria convert food particles into acids that eat away at teeth surfaces. Over time, this leads to the formation of holes caused cavities. These holes leave the inner, more sensitive layers of teeth exposed, leading to toothaches, increased sensitivity and food particles getting stuck in these holes.
The installation of a dental filling starts with the dentist thoroughly examining the patient's damaged teeth. Extensive damage caused by tooth decay might require other solutions, like onlays/inlays or a crown.
The dentist may perform a visual examination of the patient's teeth and use X-rays to examine underneath their gums.
The process of applying dental filling to a tooth starts with the dentist injecting the area around the damaged tooth with a local anesthetic. This prevents the patient from feeling pain as the dentist works on their teeth.
The dentist will then remove decayed material from any teeth that have been damaged by decay. The area is then cleaned and dried. The filling material is added directly to the tooth, and most harden on contact with air or saliva. Fillings made with composite resins need to be hardened with ultraviolet light.
Dental fillings are usually made out of materials like:
Ready to put tooth decay behind you? Call or visit our Los Gatos clinic to learn more about how dental fillings can stop tooth decay in its tracks.
Request an appointment here: https://www.scmountaindental.com or call Brent C. Lay, DDS at (408) 500-0813 for an appointment in our Los Gatos office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Filling in Los Gatos, CA.
Dental fillings are made of artificial substances, and they are used to fill the holes in your tooth left due to decay. They can also fix damaged, cracked, or broken teeth. Fillings are needed to help restore the structure of your tooth and help aid in your dental health for years to come. A dental filling…
Looking for more information on your cosmetic dentistry choices? When you are not completely satisfied with the way you look when you smile, then understand that there are many different cosmetic options for you to further explore. Whether you were born with teeth that are too small or too large, were involved in some type…
Many patients want to improve their smiles — this is where a cosmetic dentist can help. Read on to learn how cosmetic dentistry can improve the look of your smile. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the quality of the smile, while also addressing oral health and functional concerns as necessary.The primary focus of cosmetic dentistry is…
If you are not happy with your smile the way it currently looks, you should consider visiting a cosmetic dentist. Contemporary cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of your gums, mouth, teeth, and complete smile. The multi-billion dollar industry is steadily growing in popularity as more people seek to gain confidence in their smiles.There…
Dental crowns are one of the versatile restorations used in dentistry. Crowns are used to save damaged teeth that cannot be saved using less invasive procedures. Damage can occur to teeth at any time, leaving them severely compromised.Placing a crown on a tooth requires making permanent alterations by removing enamel to create a better fit.…
Dentures help some people regain their smiles without surgery. Breaking them in is important. It is the period of making your prosthesis a part of your life. Learning how to wear your dental prosthesis is important. If you want to find out how to maintain a secure and comfortable attachment for your dentures, here are…