Cavities occur when a tooth’s surface or its inner structure, known as the dentin, starts to decay. This can lead to something called dental caries or tooth decay. Cavities aren’t painful when they first occur unless there’s another damage to the tooth that results in sensitivity.
Over time, though, this pain can escalate and start to affect your quality of life. If you notice that you have cavities or you see cavities in an exam, this means you’ve got to start a cavity filling sooner or later. But what should you expect when you have an appointment to have a cavity filled?
Read on to learn more about filling a cavity and what to expect.
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Deep Cleaning Before a Filling
Getting a filling is an important step in protecting your oral health. Before the filling is placed, it is common to get a professional “deep cleaning” of the tooth from a dental hygienist or dentist.
This deep cleaning helps remove plaque and tartar buildup from around the cavity. This often can allow bacteria to slip under the filling or decay to form around it.
Preparing for Cavity Filling
Preparing for cavity filling can be an intimidating experience. However, it doesn’t have to be. First, you will need to make sure you have adequate time to make the appointment. Prepare to be at the dentist’s office for at least an hour.
Before the dentist can fill the cavity, they will need to inspect it to determine the best course of action. This includes using a dental drill to remove the decayed enamel and then filling the hole with a filling material.
You will most likely receive a local anesthetic to numb the surrounding area. Once the filling material is placed, the dentist will examine its placement and shape. Now the cavity filling is complete, but you may be required to return to the office for follow-up visits to ensure that your filling is still intact.
There is also a preparation done days before your scheduled procedure. Ensure to get in touch with a reputable dentist around your area. If you are in Oakville, then a good place to start is with Family Dentist in Oakville. This is to ensure that the procedure will go through as planned and preparations won’t be an issue when it comes to the dental office’s distance.
Types of Fillings
Filling a cavity with a dental filling is standard practice for managing and repairing tooth decay. Depending on the size and location of the decay, there are several types of dental fillings available.
Amalgam Fillings
Having a cavity filled involves removing decay from the tooth and then filling it with a special material. Amalgam fillings are one type of filling material that has been used for teeth for a long time.
They are made of a mixture of metals, such as silver and tin, and mercury, and are strong and durable. When a patient is getting an amalgam filling, the dentist will first remove the decay from the tooth. Then the tooth will be cleaned and isolated from saliva.
After this, the filling materials will be mixed, shaped, and then placed into the cavity. The filling material will then be polished and smoothed.
Composite Fillings
Composite fillings can be used to help restore the tooth to its natural shape and size. During the procedure, the decay is removed from the cavity, and the damaged area is thoroughly cleaned.
The composite material is then used to fill the area, and the dentist will shape it to fit the tooth. The material is hardened by exposure to a special light and then polished to give a natural appearance.
Ceramic Fillings
A ceramic filling, which is a type of tooth-colored filling, is typically composed of a combination of ceramic and resin materials. The ceramic filling material is then filled into the cavity and shaped to fit the contours of your tooth and to provide extra strength and durability.
Porcelain Fillings
Filling a cavity with porcelain is an excellent option for restoring a damaged tooth. Due to its natural appearance and durability, it is a painless operation that is becoming more popular.
To ensure the filling is securely placed, your dentist may check the bite of your teeth. After the area is sealed off, the dentist will perform a quick polish to help the porcelain blend in with your normal tooth structure.
Anesthesia Options
When it comes to esthetic dental work, the patient may be anxious to receive anesthetic options before a cavity filling. It can be a relief to know that dental anesthetics provide essential relief and comfort during the procedure.
Depending on the patient, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area right away. This can be changed to make the patient as comfortable as possible. If necessary, a sedative may be recommended for more painful procedures, such as a root canal.
At the dentist’s office, the staff will make sure to keep an eye on how comfortable the patient is and change the anesthetic as needed. Afterward, most people can return to their normal routine with no restrictions.
After the Cavity Filling
After the cavity filling, it is important to take good care of your tooth so that it heals properly. Depending on the depth of your tooth decay, your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth. For deeper cavities, you may need a root canal.
Your gums may be tender for a few days after the filling, and you may experience sensitivity to cold or hot food or beverages. To help ease discomfort and reduce sensitivity, use toothpaste designed for this purpose. If your gums are still sore, you can rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution.
Keep up with your regular brushing and flossing routine, and you may need to modify your diet while the filling is healing. Choose soft foods such as eggs and yogurt, and avoid hard-to-chew foods such as popcorn and chips.
It is also important to return to your dentist for a follow-up visit to make sure the filling is intact and that it has been successful in sealing off the cavity and preventing further decay.
Know What You Can Expect When Filling a Cavity
Filling a cavity is an important step in maintaining a healthy mouth. With the right dentist and treatment, the process can be quick, comfortable and make an immediate difference in your dental health.
Make sure to contact your dentist right away if you suspect a cavity so you can get the appropriate treatment.
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