Restoring Health and Strength to Your Smile
Dental fillings are one of the most popular and efficient methods for treating cavities and restoring damaged teeth. If left untreated, a damaged tooth—whether from trauma, tooth decay, or normal wear and tear—can become uncomfortable and more susceptible to problems. Dental fillings offer a rapid and efficient treatment by improving oral health, stopping more decay, and restoring the tooth’s shape and function.
A dental filling fixes a small crack or fracture in a tooth or fills a cavity. The acids that bacteria make tooth decay accumulate on the surface of teeth and can erode the tooth enamel, eventually resulting in cavities. Cavities can worsen if left untreated, leading to discomfort and infection and occasionally requiring more involved dental procedures like a crown or root canal.
Dental fillings come in various forms, each with special benefits. During a dental visit, we will discuss each patient’s best alternatives, considering their needs, financial situation, and aesthetic preferences.
Fillings form a barrier that keeps bacteria out of the tooth by sealing the cavity and repairing the tooth. Preventing decay from penetrating farther into the tooth helps prevent the need for future, more involved dental procedures.
By addressing decay early on, fillings can help maintain the natural tooth structure. This lessens the need for more involved operations like crowns or root canals by enabling patients to keep more of their original teeth.
A tooth that has decay damage may become painful and challenging to chew. Fillings give your teeth back their natural form so you can bite, eat, and talk more easily. Because of this function restoration, patients can maintain appropriate nutrition and savour their favourite foods.
Since fillings are among the least expensive restorative procedures, many individuals can afford them. They help individuals maintain their oral health without going over budget by offering an affordable method of treating decay.
Most individuals with mild to severe tooth decay, as well as those with slight fractures or cracks, can benefit from dental fillings. Frequent dental examinations make it possible to spot decay early and treat it with fillings.
Candidates for dental fillings may experience symptoms such as:
A dental examination can establish whether a filling is necessary or whether the patient would benefit more from another course of therapy.
The dental filling procedure is straightforward and typically involves the following steps:
After thoroughly examining the tooth, we take X-rays to determine the extent of decay. Once the treatment plan is clear, we numb the tooth’s surrounding area to ensure comfort.
After carefully inspecting the tooth, we take X-rays to ascertain the degree of decay. Once the treatment strategy is established, we numb the area around the tooth to guarantee comfort.
The natural contours of the tooth are restored by applying and shaping the filling material. For maximum longevity, tooth-coloured fillings—like composite—are applied in stages and cemented using a specialized curing light.
To guarantee that the biting feels comfortable and natural, the filling is lastly polished to a smooth finish, and any necessary changes are made.
Don’t put off getting treatment if you have tooth discomfort or sensitivity or think you may have a cavity. Dental fillings are a quick and efficient way to repair your tooth, stopping additional damage and giving you a strong, healthy smile.
For more information about our dental filling options or to make an appointment, call North Hill Dental in Richmond Hill, Ontario. In order to help you keep a lovely, healthy smile for many years to come, our kind staff is here to offer gentle, superior care tailored to your particular needs.
Dental fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more, depending on the type of filling material used, your oral hygiene, and your eating habits. Regular dental check-ups help monitor the condition of your fillings.
Dental fillings are generally painless, as we use a local anesthetic to numb the area. You may experience mild sensitivity afterward, but this typically subsides within a few days.
We offer several types of fillings, including composite (tooth-colored), amalgam (silver), ceramic (porcelain), and gold. Each material has unique benefits, and we’ll help you choose the best option based on your needs.
Yes, but it’s best to wait until the numbness wears off to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. With composite fillings, you can typically eat right away, while other materials may require a few hours to set fully.