A filling is a recommended treatment for teeth exhibiting mild to moderate decay or fractures, as well as for older fillings that are showing signs of wear. Prior to the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort. Decay or old filling material, if present, is then carefully removed. Subsequently, the affected area is filled and meticulously polished. For optimal results, we typically advise the use of tooth-colored composite material. This material not only forms a secure bond with the tooth structure but also seamlessly blends in with its natural color, providing both durability and aesthetics.
The extent of dental decay is assessed through a combination of clinical examination and x-ray evaluations. It’s important to note that cavities with mild to moderate decay often don’t produce noticeable pain or symptoms. Waiting until pain arises could potentially lead to more extensive treatments such as root canals or extractions, instead of a straightforward filling.
In cases where a tooth exhibits a sizable cavity or fracture without any signs of infection, a crown may be recommended over a filling. This approach helps to ensure long-term stability and reduces the risk of recurrent cavities and fractures associated with an excessively large filling.