We don’t always see cavities coming. One day, you are feeling good, and then suddenly, you start experiencing pain or sensitivity in your tooth. However, cavities are a common dental issue that can occur at every age.
We understand the anxiety that can be experienced when you learn you need a filling for a cavity. That is why it is important to explain step by step what to expect. If you require dental fillings in Winnipeg, understanding the treatment can help alleviate your concerns and make you feel more at ease during the process.
What Are Dental Fillings?
After decay has been removed from a tooth, a material called filling is used to rebuild the tooth’s structure. It protects your teeth from
- Future damage
- Allows chewing
- Future harm
When Do You Need a Filling?
You may need a filling if you experience:
- Sensitivity in your tooth
- A visible hole in your tooth
- Food trapped in a single location
- Chewing pain
Regular dentist checkups help identify cavities early. A dentist near you can repair a cavity using a simple filling if it is diagnosed early, rather than needing more comprehensive treatments such as crowns or root canals.
Step-by-Step Process for Dental Fillings
1. Assessment
The dentist uses dental X-rays or a tiny mirror to check for cavities. They look for black patches, holes, or deterioration indicators. Once located, they recommend the appropriate course of action.
2. Numbing the Area
An injection or numbing gel is used to keep you comfortable, which allows the treatment to be pain-free. Before work starts, the area is rendered entirely numb.
3. Removing the Decay
Using a drill or laser, the dentist extracts the tooth’s decaying portion. All of the damaged regions are removed in this step. It prevents the deterioration from getting worse.
4. Clean the Tooth
The cavitated tooth is cleaned by removing the decay. In doing so, any leftover debris or bacteria are eliminated. This makes the tooth ready for the filling substance.
5. Placing the Filler
Once the cavity has been cleansed, the dentist inserts the filling material. It is applied in layers and light-hardened if it is a composite filler. Amalgam and other materials are moulded into position.
6. Forming and Polishing
In order to match your natural bite, the dentist forms the filling. They could ask you to bite down to see how it fits. Lastly, a smooth finish is achieved by polishing the filler.
What To Expect After a Dental Filling
Once the treatment is completed, your mouth will feel numb. It is advised not to chew anything until the numbness has somewhat subsided. Contact a dental clinic near you if you have any questions about your aftercare.
What’s the Average Lifespan of a Dental Filling?
The lifespan of a filling depends on the type of material used. Check the below to know more:
- 5–7 years for composite fillings
- Fillings made of amalgam: 10 to 15 years
- Ceramic or gold fillings: more than 15 years
Your filling’s lifespan can be increased with routine dental exams, regular dental cleanings, and good daily oral hygiene.
Are Dental Fillings Safe?
Yes, dental fillings are safe. All materials used are approved and tested for use in the mouth. Your dentist will always recommend options that suit your needs, health history, and personal preference.
Is Getting Dental Fillings Painful?
Getting dental fillings near you is quick and painless thanks to our highly skilled team and advanced technology, anesthetics, and methods.
When Should You Replace a Filling?
Constant chewing might cause fillings to deteriorate over time. Check the three factors below:
- Sensitivity or acute pain
- Chipped or cracked filling
- A missing or loose filling
To prevent additional harm, see a dentist in your area as soon as you experience any of these symptoms.
Protecting Your Smile Starts Here
Don’t delay getting a filling if you’re experiencing dental pain. More severe dental issues can be avoided with early treatment. Our knowledgeable staff at Garden Oaks Dental Centre is here to make the procedure simple and stress-free.
Early care is the first step toward healthy teeth.
Our skilled dentist in Winnipeg is available to assist you with routine examinations or professional cavity treatment. Let’s take the first steps towards stronger dental health.