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Dental Fillings
Dental Fillings
Dental cavities, also called dental caries, result from various factors such as bacteria, inadequate oral hygiene, frequent snacking, and consuming sugary drinks. When a cavity develops, the harm is irreversible as teeth cannot self-heal. Without treatment, the cavity will progress and potentially necessitate more complex procedures than a simple filling. Regular appointments at our office will enable early identification of tooth decay, allowing Dr. Dogra to address it promptly and prevent further complications.
Reasons for Dental Fillings
Cavities can be effectively prevented by maintaining a solid oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily. It's also important to floss once a day to reach areas that your toothbrush may miss, where food particles and bacteria tend to accumulate. Unfortunately, many individuals only brush their teeth briefly instead of the recommended 2 minutes, or they neglect to floss regularly. Tooth decay ranks as the second most common ailment after the common cold. In the United States, about 1 in 4 adults and nearly half of teenagers have experienced at least one cavity. Dental fillings are commonly used to treat cavities, also known as dental caries, and to repair cracked or broken teeth.
Our Preventive Care Program Information
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Gold
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Ceramic/porcelain
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Silver amalgam (a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, zinc, and copper)
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Composite resin (a blend of tooth-colored glass and plastic)
Each dental filling material has its own set of advantages and drawbacks:
Gold fillings are durable and visually appealing but are around ten times more expensive than other options. They can also cause a galvanic shock when placed near a silver amalgam filling. Porcelain fillings are highly resistant to staining and match the color of teeth but can be abrasive and are typically as costly as gold fillings. Silver amalgam fillings are popular for their strength, durability, and affordability. However, they may require more removal of healthy tooth material and have a higher risk of causing tooth cracks and fractures over time.
Composite resin fillings are widely used due to their tooth-colored appearance. They require less tooth structure removal, bond to the tooth, and enhance its strength. Drawbacks include lower durability compared to other materials and a slightly higher cost than silver amalgam fillings. Additional steps are necessary for composite resin fillings, involving multiple layers and a special light for drying and hardening the filling area.​
Dental FIlling Procedure
When filling a tooth, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area. Decay is removed using a drill, laser, or air abrasion tool, followed by a check to ensure all decay is gone. Vacaville Dental Smiles then cleans the cavity, sometimes applying a glass ionomer liner for added protection. Once the filling is in place, the tooth is polished for a smooth finish.
After the procedure, maintaining the filling is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush at least twice daily and floss once a day. While fillings can occasionally chip or become loose, immediate discomfort should not persist. Contact our office if you suspect any issues.
Treatment duration and cost depend on the tooth's condition. Many insurances cover silver amalgam fillings or part of the cost for composite resin. Any extra charges are payable to Vacaville Dental Smiles during treatment. Check with your dental insurance provider for coverage details.
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Why Choose "Vacaville Dental Smiles" for Dental Fillings in Vacaville
Your partner in dental health, Vacaville Dental Smiles aims to provide top-notch dental care, especially when it comes to dental fillings. Our commitment to excellence and patient satisfaction makes us the preferred choice for residents of Vacaville and the surrounding areas. We prioritize your comfort and ensure that your tooth filling procedure is pain-free and comfortable. A comprehensive consultation by our dental team walks you through the entire filling process, taking an appointment, answering your questions, and discussing your options. Additionally, we emphasize patient education. We educate our patients about their dental health and the care of their fillings. Our team provides tips for maintaining your oral hygiene to ensure long-lasting results.
We welcome a wide range of dental insurance plans, so remember to inquire before booking your appointment. If you're in search of a new dental practice, your search ends here! Contact us today at 707-416-4875 to arrange your first oral examination!
Dental Fillings FAQ
How Does the Dentist Choose A Filling?
In the past, fillings were commonly made of silver amalgam or cements like glass ionomer. However, nowadays, the most frequently used material is plastic composite. This tooth-colored substance is initially soft upon application but solidifies when exposed to UV light, adhering to your teeth.
What Should I Expect After A Filling?
After having a composite filling, you can eat right away without any special precautions. Your tooth will be fully restored, and the filling site should be barely noticeable. You might feel some mild to moderate sensitivity in the filled tooth, which should fade within 48 hours. It may take some time to adjust to the filling if it's slightly above or below your bite level.
How Long Will My Filling Last?
Despite common belief, fillings are not permanent. Typically, a filling lasts around 3-7 years on average and should be checked regularly by a dentist to confirm its condition. If you notice any discoloration, darkening, or chipping beneath the filling, contact your dentist and arrange a visit at your earliest convenience. These signs may suggest that the filling is deteriorating and requires replacement.
