Do I Need a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is necessary for patients whose teeth are sensitive to hot and cold food or are experiencing a sharp, throbbing, incessant pain in the tooth, especially when biting.
You might also need a dental filling for tooth fractures that expose the nerve fibers in the roots. The procedure is also necessary for patients with bruxism and worn-down teeth.
Did you know...
Cavities are not the only reason for dental fillings.
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The Dental Filling Treatment Process at Our Placentia Office
NUMBING AND DECAY REMOVAL
Our Placentia dentist will use a local anesthetic (lidocaine) to numb the area around the infected tooth. They’ll then use a small spoon excavator and dental drill to get rid of the decay in the tooth. For severe cases, they may use a laser or an air abrasion instrument to do the same.
CLEANING AND PREPARING THE TOOTH
The second step involves cleaning the tooth using a water jet and a curette. This cleaning removes any bacteria and debris inside the affected tooth. The dentist will then prepare for filling by roughening the inside of the tooth’s surface. Doing so will increase the surface area for bonding with the filling material.
PLACING THE DENTAL FILLING
The dentist will select a filling material, usually porcelain, resin, silver amalgam, or gold to fill your tooth. After selection, they’ll gently place the filling material inside the tooth to completely fill the space. Once inside, they will shape the tooth for a comfortable bite and polishes it to match the rest of the teeth.
Did you know...
Sugar-free gum can actually help prevent cavities.
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Did you know...
Dental fillings have been around for over 150 years.