Dental Fillings
— Seattle, WA —
When teeth aren't properly maintained, they will eventually start to decay, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other serious health conditions. It's also possible for teeth to become broken or damaged for any number of reasons. This is a common occurrence in contact sports and isn't always easy to avoid. In these situations, there are several treatments at your disposal, the primary of which involves dental fillings.
What Are Tooth Fillings?
Fillings are created from artificial materials and are designed to fill in any gaps or holes in your teeth. The purpose of a dental filling is to make sure that the stability and shape of the affected teeth are restored.
These fillings are commonly used to treat complications from tooth decay, restore eroded or worn-out teeth, and repair broken or injured teeth that involve chipped or damaged enamel. If you don't obtain dental fillings, decay would likely worsen over time, which leaves you open to numerous health complications.
How Is the Procedure Completed for Teeth Fillings?
Before you receive fillings, the gums surrounding the damaged tooth will be numbed with a local anesthetic, which significantly reduces your pain during the procedure. The damaged tooth will then be inspected to identify which filling is right for your situation.
In the event that tooth decay has developed in the area, the spots that are affected by decay will be removed, after which the tooth will be cleaned. The material for your dental fillings will then be inserted into the correct location to restore the damaged tooth to its original shape. You will then be asked to move your mouth and bite to determine if the filling is comfortable and secure.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Teeth Fillings?
If you're interested in dental fillings, an exam will be administered to determine if a filling is needed. In the event that a cavity is detected, a filling may be necessary to prevent additional decay. The procedure itself is simple and straightforward, which means that patients of all ages are good candidates for the treatment.
When Should You Replace a Tooth Filling?
While fillings are designed to be long-lasting solutions for a variety of dental issues, they aren't made to last forever. The exact material that's used for your filling dictates when the filling should be replaced. On average, you should replace dental fillings every seven to 14 years.
Why Are the Potential Complications of Teeth Fillings Important?
Before obtaining a dental filling, you should be aware of the possible complications that could occur with this treatment. Immediately following the treatment, you may experience some pain when eating or brushing your teeth.
Some individuals are allergic to the filling material, which can produce itching and other symptoms. There's a small risk that an infection will occur at the site of the filling. Speak to one of our dentists to make sure that you understand every risk.
Where Do I Find Dental Fillings Near Me?
Whether you have chipped a tooth or have noticed that a tooth is starting to decay, the fillings that we provide can improve the appearance of your teeth and restore your smile. At our dental practice, you will receive a consultation before any additional treatment is scheduled to ensure that this particular treatment is right for you.
If you believe that dental fillings can restore the appearance and functionality of your teeth and would like to schedule an initial consultation in Seattle, WA, contact us today to set up your appointment.
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