The cavity filling process is an essential component of repairing cavities and restoring the condition of your teeth. When you don’t do so, the cavities can progress to more significant degrees, which can necessitate more substantial dental services, such as root canals. Understanding the cavity filling process can ensure that you receive the services that are necessary when they are necessary. Our team at Mills River Family Dental can help to ensure that the cavity filling process can be completed as easily as possible. Here are a few things that you need to know about the cavity filling process.
How Long it Takes
Having a cavity filled generally takes less than an hour, though this will depend on your specific situation. In some cases, the cavity filling process can take as little as 15 minutes. It is important to be aware that the numbness will usually last for several hours after you have had the cavity filled, so you will want to plan accordingly for this.
Materials Used with Fillings
There are several materials that are commonly used to fill cavities. The various materials will impact the price, longevity, durability, and many other factors of the finished filling. Some materials that are commonly used include ceramic, composite, metals, amalgam, and glaa ionomer.
How Long it Lasts
The length of time that the filling will last will depend on an array of factors, including the material used, your eating habits, and other considerations. The average filling will last for many years. They may need to be replaced after a certain amount of time. When you ensure that you visit your dentist on a regular basis, you will be able to ensure that your cavity fillings are replaced when necessary in order to provide superior protection for your teeth.
Prevention is the Best Approach
Preventing your cavities tends to be the best way to protect your oral health. There are several steps that you can take to help prevent cavities from forming. First, you will need to ensure that you follow the best oral hygiene routine for your smile. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss every day. You also need to visit your dentist on a regular basis for routine cleanings and examinations. Your diet will further impact the likelihood of cavity formation. When you reduce your consumption of sugar, you can often help to keep your teeth healthier.
Numbing the Tooth
The process of having a cavity filled will start with numbing. This is often started with the use of a jelly-like substance that is applied around the area. After this, an anesthetic injection will be used to ensure that the mouth is numbed completely. This is usually the extent of the numbing process. However, for individuals that have a significant amount of dental anxiety, it is possible that nitrous oxide will be used to aid in relaxation.
May Place a Rubber Dam
A rubber dam may be placed during this process. This aids in providing better access to the affected tooth. It also helps to prevent particles and debris from falling back into the throat during the process.
Removing Tooth Decay
Once the area is completely numb, the dentist will ensure that all decayed material is removed from the tooth. This will be done with a drill, laser, or air abrasion instrument. Many people are concerned about this point, but the anesthetic should ensure that it is a painless process. After the tooth decay has been removed, the dentist will thoroughly clean the impacted area to remove all traces of debris.
Cavity Filling
Once the decay has been removed, the remaining hole will need to be filled in. This may be done with any of the materials previously listed. When you have the area filled, you can prevent bacteria from entering into the area. This also helps to provide an extra layer of protection against further decay. After the cavity has been filled, it will be polished and shaped to match the other teeth in the mouth.
When you understand the cavity filling process, you will often be able to reduce the amount of anxiety that arises with the upcoming visit. Our team at Mills River Family Dental can provide you with whatever information is necessary in making it through this process. For more information about the cavity filling process or to schedule your cavity filling appointment with us, contact us at Mills River Family Dental today!