Understanding Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are restorative materials used to repair teeth affected by decay, fractures, or wear. The primary objective is to eliminate the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the area with a suitable material, thereby preventing further deterioration and restoring the tooth's normal function.
How Do You Know if a Dental Filling Is Needed?
Signs you might need to stay on alert for:
- If there are visible holes or pits in your teeth,
- Appearance of discoloration or dark spots on the tooth surface.
- If food consistently gets trapped between certain teeth.
- If there is a presence of chipped or broken teeth.
- Experiencing sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages?
- Persistent toothache or discomfort.
If any of these symptoms are present, it's recommended to consult with a dentist at SRM Dental Clinic for the required treatment.
What is the best dental filling for you?
The best dental filling procedure depends on the patient's needs and preferences. SRM Dental Clinic provides various filling options to cater to individual needs:
- Amalgam Fillings: It is made of a combination of metals. These fillings are renowned for their strength and durability, making them ideal for restoring molars to provide significant chewing forces.
- Composite Fillings: They are made from tooth-colored resin, offer a more natural look, and seamlessly blend with your existing teeth. Moreover, they are ideal for visible areas and provide strong adhesion to tooth structures.
- Porcelain/Ceramic Fillings: These fillings are tailored to match the natural color of your teeth and are highly resistant to staining. They are adequate for patients with significant aesthetic concerns and can cover larger areas of decay.
Step-by-Step Procedures For Dental Filling At SRM Dental Clinic?
Our approach to dental fillings involves:
- Assessment and Diagnosis: A thorough dental examination, which includes X-rays, is conducted to determine the extent of tooth decay.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is given to ensure a pain-free experience during the procedure.
- Decay Removal: The decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed to stop the decay from spreading.
- Tooth Preparation: A proper cleaning is performed, and the cavity is prepared to hold the filling material in place.
- Filling Placement: The chosen filling material is applied on the prepared cavity, which secures the shape and polishes to give a natural appearance and a comfortable bite.
Post-Treatment Care
A proper post-care is advised after a dental filling. To maximize longevity, promote faster recovery, and prevent further complications.
- Do not consume extremely hot or cold foods and beverages until the anesthesia wears off.
- You may experience mild soreness around the treated area; this should subside within a few days.
- Avoid chewing on any hard or sticky foods immediately after the procedure.
- Maintain optimal oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash.
- Schedule routine dental visits to monitor the condition of your fillings and overall oral health.
If you experience prolonged sensitivity or a filling becomes dislodged, contact SRM Dental Clinic promptly for assessment and necessary intervention.