Filling a cavity may seem like a relatively simple procedure, but it’s actually a very important dental treatment. Proper dental fillings in Parramatta can relieve pain, prevent further decay, and help you maintain your smile for years to come. A filling is a material that’s used to “fill in” the space on a tooth where decay has been removed. Fillings are typically made from porcelain or composite resin, although gold and amalgam (or silver) are also options. The goal of the dentist will be to remove any visible decay from the tooth before placing the filling so that it’ll be as strong as possible for years to come.
What Is A Filling?
A filling is a material used to fill in a cavity. Fillings are made of various materials, including gold, porcelain and composite resins (tooth-coloured fillings). Composite resin is a mixture of plastic and glass particles. The material is placed in the cavity and hardened with light or lasers. When your dentist in Parramatta fills a cavity, he or she removes decay from your tooth before filling it with an appropriate filling material.
Why Do You Need A Filling?
Dental fillings in Parramatta are necessary for a variety of reasons. They can be used to:
- Restore the shape and form of a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma.
- Prevent tooth decay and tooth loss caused by large cavities, deep cracks, or exposed roots.
- Improve the look of a tooth that has been discoloured due to ageing, stains from food and drinks, or chips in the enamel surface (caries).
What Happens During A Filling?
Before the dentist in Parramatta can create a filling, you’ll first need to have the affected tooth numbed. This process is known as local anaesthesia and involves injecting an anaesthetic into the gum surrounding your tooth. The area will be numb for about half an hour, after which time you’ll feel some pressure from the drill but very little pain.
After this, your dentist will remove any decay and clean around your tooth before shaping it so that there’s enough space left over for filling material, this will usually be composite resin or amalgam (silver alloy).
Finally comes placing the filling material itself: either by hand or using special equipment depending on what type of filling is being used (the latter being more common).
What Can You Expect After A Filling?
After your dental filling is placed, you may feel sore for a few days. You can eat and drink as usual, but avoid eating foods that are hard or crunchy. This includes ice, popcorn and nuts; also avoid sticky foods like caramel candies until the filling has set completely (usually two hours).
You may notice that your new filling is darker than your other teeth because it contains mercury to help it bond with the tooth structure. If you have any questions about this, please call our office for advice on how long to wait before eating these types of food again.
If you have sensitive teeth, flossing may become more painful for a few days after your appointment due to the sensitivity caused by placing new fillings in your mouth. However, if this problem persists longer than a week or so then we recommend seeing us again so we can determine whether or not something else might be going on with one of your teeth that does not involve dental work just yet.
How long will the filling last?
The longevity of a filling depends on the type of material used. Amalgam fillings are generally more durable than composite resin fillings because they’re made to bond with your tooth structure. Composite resins are less stable and typically wear out faster. In general, it’s better to maintain good oral hygiene habits and keep an eye on your mouth as you age, this will help you identify problems early and prevent further damage from occurring.
Safe And Effective
Dental fillings in Parramatta are safe and effective. In fact, they’re one of the most commonly performed procedures in general dentistry. A filling is a method of restoring a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. By nature, fillings are restorations that can last many years with proper care.
In addition to restoring and repairing tooth structure, a filling also provides strength and support for the surrounding teeth by anchoring them to the other teeth in your mouth.
If you’re looking for an affordable way to improve your smile without having to undergo invasive surgery, then dental fillings may be right up your alley!
