Repairing A Cavity Has never Been Easier
Tooth fillings are a common general dental care procedure that we provide to restore decayed or damaged teeth. The process involves removing the decay, cleaning the area, and filling it with a material such as amalgam, porcelain, or composite resin.
Our dentist will protect the tooth from further damage and restore its look and function. Here, we will discuss all aspects of the tooth-filling procedure, including what it is, why you need it, the process, and more.
Cosmetic and Advanced Dentistry uses a tooth filling to protect and add strength to a tooth that has decay, wear, or other damage. Our Owings Mills, MD, dentist provides only tooth-colored dental fillings, or composite tooth fillings, in our dental practice.
Our dental fillings are durable, attractive, and highly compatible. A composite white filling bonds directly to the tooth and expands like a natural tooth. Learn about our process next.
Placing a Composite Resin Tooth Filling
These dental fillings consist of a durable, biocompatible composite resin. This resin comes in a range of tooth-colored shades to match natural teeth perfectly. Although they will not last as long as other types of dental fillings, a composite tooth filling will still last many years or more. Especially with proper care and maintenance.
Placing a dental filling is an important procedure for restoring the shape, strength, and function of a tooth. It requires skill and precision to ensure that the dentist properly places and secures the filling material. To begin, we will conduct a dental exam to find all cavities. We will locate each cavity and mark it for treatment.
Next, Dr. Ed Lazer will clean out each cavity. He will use modern dental tools and local anesthesia so that you do not feel any pain. Then, he will apply the composite resin tooth filling by hand directly to the tooth, without the aid of molds or other templates. After that, he will sculpt the resin into place and harden it with a special light. We can usually complete a resin fillings treatment in a single visit.
In most cases, our dentist will remove little to no existing tooth structure in order to install a composite resin tooth filling. This is not the case with gold, porcelain or amalgam (silver) fillings. We do our best to preserve as much of your real tooth as possible. The best part is that you can use your tooth immediately after the anesthesia wears off!
Advantages of Using Composite Resin
Composite resin fillings bond and seal to the tooth, which helps to protect it from further decay and provides a stronger and longer lasting seal. There are many advantages to using this material for your cavity filling needs. The following are just some of the benefits that you can expect from composite resin fillings.
- Increased Strength: Composite resin is much stronger than amalgam and our dentist can use it to fill larger cavities, or provide larger fillings.
- Natural, Color Matching: Composite resin is available in a variety of shades and tints to create a more natural appearance. We will be able to more closely match the color of your existing teeth.
- Faster, Easier Repair: Our dentist directly applies composite resin to the tooth and set it in place with a curing light or bonding agent. This makes the process of fixing a broken or damaged tooth much faster and easier.
- No Discoloration: Composite resin does not discolor or corrode over time, which means that the fillings will remain white and attractive for longer periods.
- Less Sensitivity: Composite resin fillings are less likely to cause sensitivity and discomfort than silver amalgam fillings.
What Happens After I Get a New Tooth Filling?
After you get a new tooth filling, your dentist will check to make sure that the filling properly sets and that it fits comfortably in your mouth. They will likely use a special light or mirror to inspect the tooth. In some cases, there may be some tenderness around the area for a few days. This is normal and should subside over time.
Your dentist may also suggest that you avoid chewing food near the new filling until it has completely set. After the filling completely sets in, it should last for several years. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- It is normal to experience some tooth sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks for a few weeks following the placement of your new filling. This will gradually resolve as your tooth adjusts to the new filling.
- Avoid chewing hard foods or biting your nails on the side of your mouth where the filling is located.
- Brush and floss your teeth as normal. Be sure to floss gently around the filling.
- Following your dental visit, your mouth may still be numb while the anesthesia wears off. This is normal and goes away in a couple of hours. However, try not to use your mouth until it completely recovers from the anesthesia. That way you don’t accidentally bite your lips, cheeks or tongue.
- Schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist to check on the status of your new filling after a couple of weeks.
Caring for Teeth with Resin Fillings
It is easy to maintain your composite resin fillings. First and most importantly, follow good oral hygiene. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Secondly, avoid very hard or extra sticky foods.
Avoiding hard foods or sticky foods like popcorn, nuts, and caramels can prevent the filling from cracking or breaking under a lot of pressure. Sticky foods like taffy can stick to the filling and increase the risk of decay.
Thirdly, Make sure to keep up with your regular dental visits, even if your filling isn’t giving you any trouble. Regular check-ups can help our dentists detect any early signs of wear and tear so that we can replace the filling before it becomes a larger problem.
Lastly, don’t chew on anything especially hard! For example, don’t use your teeth to open packages or cut things with. You risk not only damaging your new filling, but also damaging the soft tissues in your mouth.
By following these tips, you are elongating the life if your new composite resin filling. If you have more questions or concerns, ask our dentists for more tips during your next dental exam.
Replacing Metal Dental Fillings
Many patients with a traditional amalgam filling (metal filling) choose to replace it with a comfortable and attractive cosmetic white filling. Some patients have sensitivity to metal in their mouth and report having a metallic taste or discomfort because of their old metal filling.
Dr. Lazer can remove your metal dental filling and replace it with either a white composite resin filling, or a porcelain Onlay or Inlay. Porcelain onlays and inlays are two dental restoration options that we can use to treat damaged or decayed teeth.
Dr. Lazer may use an Onlay when the damage is on the chewing surface of the tooth. He may use an inlay when the damage is on the inside of the tooth; between the cusps.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most frequently asked questions concerning dental fillings.
Can grinding or clenching teeth affect the longevity of dental fillings?
Yes, grinding or clenching your teeth can definitely shorten your dental fillings’ life. The constant pressure and friction wear down the filling material, making it more prone to cracks or breakage. Addressing these habits can help protect your fillings and keep them lasting longer.
Do fillings prevent future cavities?
Fillings repair existing cavities but don’t stop new ones from forming. To prevent future tooth decay, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are key to keeping cavities at bay.
How long after a filling can I eat?
You can usually eat after the numbness from the anesthesia wears off, which might take a couple of hours. It’s smart to start with soft foods to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Your dentist might give you specific guidelines based on the type of filling you received.
Are there any foods I should avoid after getting a filling?
Yes, after getting a filling, it’s best to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods for at least 24 hours. Things like nuts, candies, or gum can dislodge or damage the new filling. Sticking to softer foods helps ensure your filling sets properly.
How long does it take for a composite filling to feel normal?
A composite filling might initially feel a bit sensitive, but it usually feels normal within a few days to a week. You might notice sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures initially. This should gradually diminish as your tooth adjusts.
Does dental insurance typically cover dental fillings?
Yes, most dental insurance plans cover dental fillings, especially when they’re necessary for your health. The amount covered can vary depending on your specific policy. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage details.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Replacing old fillings will improve your dental health, the look of your teeth, and reduces tooth sensitivity. Visit Cosmetic and Advanced Dentistry in Owings Mills, MD for routine dental exams, dental cleanings, tooth fillings, and more.
Give our comprehensive Baltimore dentists a call at (410) 697-6290. To learn more about our cosmetic dental services, see Cosmetic Dentistry in Owings Mills.