A dental filling procedure is a common general dentistry treatment. Patients of all ages can benefit from this dental procedure as it is restorative, therapeutic, and extremely helpful when needing to address a tooth that is in bad shape. While it has been the standard for performing dental restorations, some people are unfamiliar with how the actual treatment works. Ready to find out more?
Below is a quick overview of dental fillings, including what they are and how the treatment works. It can be helpful to review the following information when preparing for the procedure.
A dental filling is a restorative procedure done to repair a tooth that is decayed, chipped, cracked, or broken. However, most commonly, general dentists perform it for patients who have cavities. Currently, dental fillings are made of ceramic porcelain or composite resin. The ceramic material lasts longer than the composite resin as it is created using a milling machine and allows for a nearly perfect fit and is bonded into place. The composite resin fillings are placed at chairside and are layered by hand and set with the curing light.
The dental filling treatment process
A dental filling procedure consists of a few easy steps, which are outlined below:
1. Many times, the laser can be used to remove the decay and sterilize the preparation without the need for anesthetic. If the patient experiences sensitivity, a local anesthetic can be used to make the patient more comfortable. For nervous or fearful patients, Nitrous Oxide is often used to help the patient feel more comfortable and relax.
2. The laser will remove just the decayed areas, preserving more tooth structure, allowing for a smaller restoration, therefore helping to prevent sensitivity. Many times, the dental drill is no longer needed.
3. Once the area is completely free of decay and any debris, the tooth is cleaned and sterilized to prepare for the restoration.
4. A dental composite filling is placed, or a porcelain restoration is created and bonded into the preparation.
After a dental filling procedure, the patient may experience sensitivity or soreness in, on, and around the tooth, which is completely normal. An over-the-counter pain reliever can be taken for a day or two to remedy any discomfort. General dentists recommend that the patient avoid hard or sticky foods for a couple of days to allow for proper healing. Oral hygiene should be maintained as normal, however, it is important to be gentle around the filled tooth.
Do you currently need a dental filling?
When needing a dental filling procedure, it is best to consult directly with a general dentist to get started. A quick evaluation can be done to determine the appropriate course of action. Additionally, the dentist can answer questions or address concerns that the patient may have. Contact us today to find out more about our lasers, the dental filling process or to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.bittnerdentalgroup.com or call Bittner Family Dental Group at (408) 247-8080 for an appointment in our San Jose office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Fillings in San Jose, CA.
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