TOOTH-COLORED
FILLINGS IN HOT SPRINGS, AR
Dental fillings are small dental restorations that repair teeth affected by cavities. They close the holes left by tooth decay, restoring normal appearance, health and function to the teeth. Older fillings were made from metal materials, but nowadays most fillings that Porter Dental Health Clinic uses are crafted from tooth-colored, natural-looking materials like composite resin or porcelain.
Trusted with providing excellence in oral health
When Is a Dental Filling Necessary?
Fillings help to protect teeth with cavities from developing more serious problems down the line. Fillings can also help repair teeth with minor damage like fractures or cracks, or teeth that have become extremely worn from chronic bruxism (i.e., teeth grinding or clenching).
Teeth with greater amounts of decay or damage usually require a crown, which completely covers the entire exterior of a tooth and protects it from further damage.
How Do You Know If You Need a Filling?
There is no simple way to know that you need a filling; only Porter Dental Health Clinic can determine that, after an in-depth examination. However, some signs or symptoms that may suggest you should see Porter Dental Health Clinic for an evaluation include the following:
- Toothache (either throbbing or sharp pain)
- Tooth sensitivity when eating or brushing
- A visible hole in the tooth
- A rough or jagged feeling when you run your tongue over the tooth
If Dr. Porter or Dr. Warren determines you need a filling, they will outline your options in materials and recommend what they feel is best based on factors such as the location of the tooth in your mouth and the size of the area that needs to be restored.
Tooth-Colored Filling Procedure Details
Most fillings can be placed during a single office visit. Numbing medication is administered so you do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
We begin by preparing the tooth receiving the filling. We remove dental decay or damaged enamel with a dental handpiece. Then, we clean the entire tooth area and dry it. A primer and bonding agent are placed on the tooth. Next, we apply the composite fillings material directly to the tooth, shaping and sculpting it as we work to give the tooth a natural shape and appearance. With a curing light, we hardens the filling material.
After placing the filling, we check it against the bite to make sure the upper and lower teeth bite together properly and there is no unevenness. To finish, Porter Dental Health Clinic polishes the new filling so it looks translucent like natural tooth enamel.
How To Ensure Best Results
You can care for fillings just as you would natural teeth. You should brush and floss your filling every day and have it examined by Porter Dental Health Clinic at least every six months to check its integrity.
How to Schedule a Composite Filling Procedure
If you would like to learn more about tooth-colored fillings as well as other types of fillings, Porter Dental Health Clinic is here to help. Please schedule an appointment with us by calling or sending us an email today. We look forward to helping you recapture a beautiful smile and optimal oral health!
