235 St. John Road, Suite 110, Fletcher, NC 28732
What Are Dental Fillings?
A dental filling is a dental restoration that is used to fill in areas of decay in one or more teeth. Decay, also known as a cavity, can gradually weaken a tooth by eating into it until it reaches the inner pulp. To prevent further damage, the decay is removed and replaced with a filling made of tooth-colored composite resin.
Why Would I Need a Dental Filling?
If you don't treat a cavity, it can worsen and eventually require a complete root canal, which may weaken the tooth in the long run. To safeguard the tooth and remove the underlying decay, we recommend getting a filling. Fillings are simple restorations that can be matched to the color of your natural smile.
You might be unaware of a cavity until you come in for an examination with us. Our specialized tool aids in identifying dark areas or vulnerable spots in your teeth. X-rays are also effective in pinpointing these issues. If you do have a cavity, it is recommended to have it filled promptly.
What happens when you get a tooth filling?
To start the filling process, we first numb the affected area in your mouth. We then remove all decay from the tooth. After that, we prepare the tooth for the new composite filling by applying an etching gel, rinsing it off, and filling the hole with resin. The resin is then hardened using a special dental light. If needed, we can place multiple fillings in the same area, so it's best to seek treatment as soon as a cavity is found.
If you have any questions about dental fillings or would like more information about the procedure, please don't hesitate to contact our office today. Our friendly team members are here to help you.