Dental Fillings Dallas . Addison . Irving TX

Learn About Dental Fillings

Fillings are needed due to tooth decay, which can eventually lead to cavities. These issues are formed by bacteria in your mouth that cause acids to attack the enamel of one or more of your teeth. These acids will eventually create holes, or cavities, in your teeth. Cavities can range in size and even lead to the destruction of an entire tooth if not treated correctly and in good time. Exposing your teeth to acid often, especially with certain types of foods or drinks, can increase the likelihood of cavities, which will result in requiring dental fillings.

A filling is needed after your dentist performs a root canal, in which they remove any infected pulp from the root of your tooth. There are a few primary steps involved in this process. Your downtown Dallas dentist will begin by numbing the area surrounding your affected teeth with a local anesthetic. This will ensure that you feel no pain or discomfort during the procedure. Next, a drill will be used to remove the decayed portion of your tooth. The area will then be examined to make sure all the decay or infected pulp has been effectively removed from your tooth. If all is determined to be well, your dentist will move forward with the filling.

The filling process will begin with the tooth's root being cleaned out of all leftover bacteria and dried. If the infection happens to have reached close to the root of the tooth, your dentist will place a liner in the root to protect the nerve. This liner will generally be made of a composite resin or another protective material. Once the tooth has been prepared, the filling will be placed. Many types of materials can be used, including composite and amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are more popular because they are tooth-colored, look natural, and blend in with your surrounding teeth. Most patients choose to go the composite route for these reasons.

You may be wondering what life will be like after getting a filling. At first, you may experience some unusual sensations in your tooth, but this is normal and will fade over time. Some examples of feelings patients have are sensitivity to cold foods, sweet foods, or air. You should not experience pain, and if you do, it is possible that your filling was made too tall. If this is the case, it can be easily fixed by your downtown Dallas dentist. If you are having pain or discomfort after two weeks, while uncommon, there are a few possibilities:

• A different material may need to be used.
• A liner may need to be added.
• A desensitizing agent may need to be added.
• The filling may be too deep.

All of these are quick fixes and can be easily resolved by your dentist. If you are having issues following your filling, it is best to contact our office promptly to have it looked into and repaired.

If you take proper care of your newly-filled tooth or teeth, they can return to their natural look and function. Fillings are also able to aid in protecting against future cavities and disease. We recommend taking care of your filled teeth just as you would care for your natural teeth: with plenty of brushing, flossing, and bi-yearly trips to see us for hygiene appointments and dental checkups! Dental fillings will aid in enabling you to smile with confidence again, and our downtown Dallas dental team cannot wait to assist in this process. Call us at (469) 943-1400 if you think you may require a filling or have any questions!