Tooth decay results in forming small holes in teeth known as cavities. When plaque and oral bacteria enter the pits, it results in tooth pain, sensitivity, and loss. If cavities are left untreated, they lead to tooth loss. Therefore, you should contact your dentist for dental fillings in Markham, ON. Continue reading and learn more about dental fillings for cavities.

What Are Tooth Fillings?

Dental fillings are materials that dentists use to fill cavities in decayed teeth. They also repair cracked, broken, or worn down teeth. When placing a dental filling on teeth damaged by decay, the dentist will remove decay and then fill the tooth. The fillings may be made from tooth-colored or metallic materials. Your dentist will help you choose suitable filler. The choice will be based on your budget, location, and extent of the decay. Your personal preference and the durability of the filling are also considered. The commonly used types of dental fillings in Markham, ON, are:  

• Silver or amalgam

    These are made from several metal alloys. They are durable and can last 10-15 years if properly maintained. Silver fillings are strong and can withstand chewing forces. However, they are hardly used on front teeth because their color does not match natural teeth.  

• Composite

    They are fillings that are micro-mechanically bonded to a tooth structure. Composite fillings are easily matched to the color of surrounding teeth. Therefore, they provide a beautiful smile. In addition, composite fillings conserve the tooth being filled during preparation.  

• Ceramic

    These are tooth-colored fillings made from porcelain. They are durable, strong, and can last for more than 15 years. Dentists use them for front teeth because they are aesthetically pleasing. They are also resistant to staining.  

• Glass ionomer

    They are fillings made of acrylic and glass. Glass ionomer fillings are suitable for restoring caries in primary teeth or near the tooth roots. In addition, they release fluoride into the tooth, preventing further decay.

When Are Fillings Necessary to Treat Teeth Caries?

Teeth cavities are not always treated with dental fillings. Other alternatives are based on the size and depth of the hole, oral health, and risk for cavities. The alternative treatments include root canal, dental crown placement, or extraction. So, how would you know that you need the necessary cavity filling? The dentist will first ask about the symptoms experienced. Symptoms of cavities are toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, and pain when chewing or biting down. If you have any symptoms, they will examine your teeth to look for signs of decay. They will look for visible holes in teeth and discoloration. Then, the dentist will proceed with the diagnosis to determine the extent of decay and whether the cavity needs filling. If your cavity is small with minor decay limited to the enamel, you will not need a filling. Instead, the dentist will recommend good oral hygiene, fluoride treatments, and foods full of calcium. This helps remineralize the enamel to reverse the cavities. However, there may be an exception when you have a small cavity but have a history of caries. The cosmetic dentist in Markham will provide the fluoride treatments and then monitor the hole. However, if the decay progresses beyond the enamel or causes discomfort, different measures are taken. First, they will remove the decay to prevent it from spreading. The expert will then fill the created hole to alleviate symptoms such as sensitivity. However, if the cavity affects your dental pulp, the dentist will do a root canal treatment. The treatment focuses on removing infected tissues and bacteria from the dental pulp. Your dentist may use a filling to restore the tooth. Necessary cavity fillings are performed when a large portion of your tooth is decayed, but the tooth roots are unaffected. The dentist will remove the decayed portion. They may use a drill, laser, or air abrasion instruments. Once the dentist removes all the decay, the dentist will clean the area and place the filling. Finally, they will shape and polish for the desired size. Do you need to have a dental fillings procedure? Then schedule an appointment with us at 14th Avenue Dentistry. We will diagnose the problem and then use the highest quality tools for the treatment. Our team of dental experts assures you of a painless and straightforward process.