Your teeth play a crucial role in your health and everyday life, and it’s important to ensure they stay strong and healthy. Chewing, speaking, and smiling are all made easier when your teeth are in good health. That’s why a dental filling often becomes necessary, as it can help repair the damage done to your teeth.
Healthy teeth and beautiful smiles are our priority at Morris Dental Solutions. We specialize in repairing teeth with a wide selection of dental fillings. If you are searching for dental filling Buffalo Grove, dentist Buffalo Grove, or dentist near me, call (847) 215-1511 or complete the online booking form to book an appointment at Morris Dental Solutions. Our goal is to give you the highest level of dental care in Buffalo Grove.
What Is A Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a type of restorative dentistry treatment used for repairing damage done to teeth. Fillings are made from composite resins or porcelain matched to your natural tooth color. They are placed in cavities and other areas of damaged enamel, providing an effective and long-lasting solution for restoring strength and structure.
What Is a Cavity?
A cavity is a hole in the enamel of your tooth caused by acid from plaque buildup and bacteria. Cavities occur when the enamel weakens, allowing bacteria to penetrate and eat away at the tooth’s inner layers. Without proper dental restoration, cavities can cause decay or infection in the pulp of your tooth, leading to severe pain, root canal therapy, or even tooth loss. Cavities left untreated can also spread to other teeth, further compromising your oral health.
Types of Dental Fillings
There are many types of fillings available, ranging from material type to color. Here’s a quick look at the different kinds:
- Amalgam (silver fillings) – These are composed of silver, tin, mercury, and other metals and are known for their strength and long-lasting properties.
- Composite (white fillings) – These are made of a mixture of glass or quartz filler and plastic resin and can be color matched to your natural teeth for a more attractive appearance.
- Ceramic – These fillings are composed of porcelain material that is designed to match the look and feel of natural teeth and are also known for their durability.
- Glass ionomer – This type of filling is made from a combination of acrylic and glass particles and releases fluoride over time, which helps to protect the teeth.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
- Quick Treatment – Fillings can usually be completed in one visit.
- Preventative Care – A filling helps prevent further damage to the decayed tooth by providing strength and structure.
- Preservation of Teeth – A filling helps preserve the natural tooth, allowing you to keep your original tooth rather than having it removed.
- Cost-Effective – Fillings are generally more cost-effective than other restorative treatments such as crowns or bridges.
How Do I Know if I Need a Filling?
If you’re experiencing sensitivity or pain in your teeth, it could be a sign that you need to have a filling. It is also important to visit the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings to identify any damage early on. Only your dentist will be able to determine if you require a filling. Using advanced imaging (Digital X-Rays), they can assess the situation and provide you with the best course of action.
How The Filling Process Works
Tthe dental filling process is fairly straightforward. In most cases, the filling can be completed in one visit.
Here’s an overview of the steps involved:
- Anesthesia – You will receive local anesthesia (a numbing agent) before placing your filling. The anesthesia will numb the affected area so you won’t feel any pain. If you require additional sedation, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), discuss this with the dentist before the procedure.
- Cleaning and preparation – Your dentist will then clean the area of the tooth to be filled, removing any decay and debris.
- Filling placement – The filling material is then placed in the prepared tooth, shaped, hardened with a special light, and polished to match your natural teeth.
Final Check – Your dentist will then perform a final check to ensure that the filling placement has been successful and that your bite is comfortable.
Summary
- A dental filling is a type of restorative dentistry treatment used for repairing damage done to teeth.
- Fillings are made from composite resins or porcelain matched to your natural tooth color.
- Four types of fillings:
- Amalgam (silver fillings)
- Composite (white fillings)
- Ceramic
- Glass ionomer
- Procedure steps:
- Anesthesia
- Clean the tooth and remove decay or debris
- Fill the cavity area with filling material
- Bite check
- Two types of fillings: composite (white) and amalgam (silver)
Helping Your Smile Stay Healthy and Beautiful
A dental filling is a great way to preserve the health and beauty of your smile. With regular visits to the dentist for check-ups and cleanings, combined with proper oral hygiene at home, you can ensure that your teeth stay healthy and strong for many years to come. We welcome your entire family to our dental office in Buffalo Grove for all of your dental needs!
If you are searching for dental filling Buffalo Grove, dentist Buffalo Grove, or dentist near me, call Morris Dental solutions at (847) 215-1511 or complete the online booking form to book an appointment. Our dedicated team proudly serves the communities of Barrington, Arlington Heights, Long Grove, and Highland Park.
We look forward to helping you with your beautiful, healthy smile!
Call UsDental Filling FAQ
You can usually start eating again 2 hours after your filling. We recommend that you avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods during your recovery period to help protect the new filling and allow it to set correctly.
The cost of dental fillings will depend on the type of material used, and the size and extent of the repair needed. Generally, composite fillings are more expensive than amalgam fillings, so we recommend speaking to your dentist about all the options available.
Most people experience minimal pain when getting a dental filling. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel discomfort during the procedure. You may experience slight sensitivity afterward, but this should go away in a few days.
Yes, you can usually go to work the same day after a dental filling. You may experience some sensitivity for a few days afterward, so we recommend taking it easy and avoiding strenuous activity until your mouth has fully healed. Please check with your dentist before returning to work if you received sedation.
Yes, you can brush your teeth after having a dental filling. You will need to take extra care when brushing around the area of the filling, but it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent any further damage or decay. Regular checkups and professional cleanings are also important to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
