The dental fillings procedure is one of the most common dental procedures we provide today. Our dentists at Complete Dentistry For All Ages use dental fillings to repair damaged and decayed teeth. We will restore your oral health and maintain the integrity of the natural tooth. Dr. Morgan Chambers offers several types of dental fillings in her Lexington, KY dental office.
Modern fillings are a preventative treatment that our dentists can also use to replace old and dark fillings. We will recommend filling material based on the location of the tooth and the severity of the decay or damage. Continue reading to learn more about our dental filling procedure, how to prevent cavities, and other answers to your questions about dental fillings.
Dental Fillings Procedure in Lexington, KY
The dental filling procedure is relatively simple. Our dentists can complete the procedure in one visit. During the appointment, Dr. Chambers will examine your teeth and take X-rays if necessary.
Then, she will clean and remove any decayed material from the affected area. This will prepare the affected tooth or teeth for the filling. Next, she will apply a local anesthetic to numb your mouth and ensure your comfort during treatment. After your mouth is numb, she may also remove old fillings if necessary.
Next, she will clean the area again before filling the cavity with either composite resin or amalgam. After placing the filling material into the affected area, Dr. Chambers will cure it with a special light. Finally, Dr. Chambers will polish your tooth for a comfortable fit and a natural look.
Our dentists can typically place composite resin, or tooth-colored fillings, during a single visit. However, our dental lab will need time to create gold or porcelain fillings, so these will require two visits to our dental practice. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible dental filling service so that you can enjoy a healthy smile for years to come.
How to Prevent Cavities
Cavities may be lurking around the corner if you don’t properly care for your smile. Finding ways to practice proper oral hygiene is key to the success of maintaining optimal oral health. Dr. Chambers believes that patient education and preventive dentistry are two of the greatest tools to help patients achieve excellent oral health.
Preventing cavities relies heavily on your oral hygiene routine. Finding the right routine for your smile should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day, using a fluoride mouthwash, and drinking the appropriate amount of water for your body.
Dr. Chambers will make sure to fully inform you of your options, provide personalized dental care, and address your dental concerns in a timely manner during your visit to our Lexington, KY dental office.
Dental Fillings FAQs
Do you want to know more about fillings and cavities? The following are answers to questions we get about this common dental procedure. Continue reading to see if a dental filling may be an effective treatment option for you.
What are cavities?
When sugars and starches mix with bacteria from plaque, it creates an acid that breaks down the tooth enamel over time. Tooth decay will set in, and a cavity will develop if you do not seek treatment for your teeth. Dr. Chambers offers a range of restorative, general, and cosmetic dentistry procedures for patients with cavities. Dr. Chambers may provide dental fillings, root canals, and dental cleanings, depending on your needs.
Can you replace old fillings?
Yes! Our dentists can replace old and dark fillings with white fillings to enhance your smile and dental health. Over time, old fillings can degrade and leak, allowing additional decay and damage. Dr. Chambers will examine your dental fillings and determine if she needs to replace them.
What happens if I don’t treat a cavity with a filling?
If left untreated, a cavity can worsen, causing more decay and potentially leading to an infection or abscess. The affected tooth may become painful and require more extensive treatment, like a root canal or extraction. Treating a cavity with a filling early on is essential to protect your tooth and prevent more complex issues.
What should I do if my filling causes sensitivity?
Some sensitivity after a new filling is normal, especially with composite fillings. This usually fades within a few days to a couple of weeks. If the sensitivity persists or is severe, contact your dentist, as it could indicate an issue with the filling or an underlying problem that needs attention.
Does getting a dental filling hurt?
Dentists usually numb the area around the tooth before beginning the procedure, so the procedure itself is generally pain-free. After the anesthetic wears off, you may feel some minor soreness or sensitivity, which typically fades within a day or two. Mild discomfort may last a bit longer for deeper fillings, but it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan of a dental filling depends on the material, location, and oral hygiene. Composite fillings typically last 5-7 years, while amalgam can last 10-15 years or more. Good oral care, including regular check-ups, can help extend the life of any filling.
Schedule A Visit To Our Lexington, KY Dentist Office
If you haven’t scheduled a dental exam visit to our Lexington, KY dental Office yet, now is the best time! Complete Dentistry For All Ages offers complete, comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages. Dr. Chambers will determine which dental care solution is best for your dental issues. Call our office to make an appointment or schedule a dental appointment online.