Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Filling

Fillings are used to replace the decayed tooth area and prevent further decay or tooth pain. A dental filling actually refers to a substance used to fill a space or hole created by a cavity in a tooth. Most adults will have at least one filling once they reach adulthood and many pediatric dentists also use fillings in children who do not yet have permanent teeth as untreated cavities can cause oral pain and tooth decay. Getting a filling as a treatment for a cavity is one of the most common procedures that dentists perform.

What’s in a Filling?

Fillings can be made up of a few different types of materials. Based on your particular needs with respect to your cavity, your dentist will advise you on what type of material is best suited for your treatment. Fillings can be made of a substance called amalgam that is often a mixture of metals including copper, tin or mercury. Some fillings are even made of silver or gold. The cost of a metal filling will depend on what type of metals are used. Amalgam fillings are less expensive than silver or even gold. These types of fillings are strong and durable but some people do not wish to have metal in their mouths or like the way the metals look as they are different colored than their teeth. Fillings made of ceramic can be made to have the same color as your teeth and are durable as well but are also the most expensive. Some fillings made also be made of a substance called composite or glass ionomer where glass is mixed with resin or other substances. These types of fillings may be visually appealing but not as durable.

What Happens at the Dentist’s Office?

The dentist will numb the area to prepare it for the filling and then clean the decay and debris. Once the affected area is ready, the dentist will affix the filling and fit it to the tooth area using air abrasion or if needed, some drilling and filing. The area will only remain numb a few hours and any tooth pain prior to the filling should be relieved almost immediately. At 14th Avenue Dentistry, we help patients get ready for fillings every day. Call our office to learn more!