DENTAL FILLINGS NEAR YOU
Dental fillings are commonly used to repair decayed, cracked, or broken teeth. Fillings can be made of different materials, including gold, porcelain, dental amalgam, composite resin, and ceramics. Dental amalgam used to be popular but tends to be more visible in the mouth. For this reason, many people prefer more natural-looking filling materials such as composite resin.
What To Expect During the Filling Procedure
The actual filling procedure depends on the severity of the cavity and the type of filling that is used. The general procedure involves removing the decayed part of the tooth and cleaning it out. Your dentist will then apply the filling to the cavity and harden the material with a special bonding light. The filling procedure is relatively painless as the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area.
How Often Do Fillings Need To be Replaced?
While most fillings can last for several years, over time, they can become loose, get worn down, or simply break. If you have amalgam fillings, you can also choose to replace these with the popular composite resin fillings. Composite resin is more easily matched to the natural colour of the teeth and therefore creates a more aesthetically pleasing look.