What are Fillings?
Dental fillings are used to treat dental cavities. When a tooth decays, it loses functionality and shape, exacerbating deterioration and causing pain and sensitivity. A dental filling helps restore the tooth’s shape and prevent further damage from decay. Fillings close off the area of the tooth exposed to the cavity, which prevents food, bacteria, and other foreign matter from getting inside.
What Are Fillings Made Of?
Tooth-colored composite dental fillings are an obvious choice for filling cavities in teeth that are visible when our patient opens their mouth, smiles, or talks. Composite is a versatile material used in all types of dental repairs, including those involving structural damage, holes, and fractures. Composite dental fillings allow Dr. Wetherill to remove less of the healthy tooth structure.
Why Dentists Recommend Fillings
Cavities are the primary reason why fillings are performed. However, fillings are also used to treat small holes in teeth that occur due to fractures or even as part of the aging process. Sometimes dental fillings are a good option for treating discolored teeth.
What to Expect When You Get a Filling
Filling a tooth is a relatively simple procedure. Dr. Wetherill will:
- Numb the area to be treated using a numbing gel and local anesthetic.
- Grind, shape, and repair the area to be treated with a special dental drill. All decay is removed from the tooth.
- Probe the area to assess damage to the tooth’s structure and determine how to fill the area.
- Fill the area using the appropriate filling material.
- Polish the treated area and buff away any residue left from the procedure.
Dental fillings are a safe, effective way to treat cavities in Wilmington. Modern techniques make getting a filing nearly painless. Visit Wetherill Family Dentistry today to learn about the dental filling options available to you for the treatment of cavities or other issues.
