Posted by Damaged surfaces of the teeth due to tooth decay and fractures would require a trip to the dentist. Tooth decay happens due to enamel loss, which eventually causes tooth sensitivity. To fix this, dentists recommend placing dental fillings in cavities to fill the sensitive areas, making it more comfortable for their patients to chew and bite again.
Depending on the extent of the damage, the dentist may require alternative or additional procedures such as the following:
a. Dental bridges or dental implants
If the damage to the tooth seems irreparable using only dental fillings, a cosmetic dentist in Columbia, MD may need to extract the tooth, and replace it with a tooth implant, or a dental bridge.
b. Dental crowns
If your teeth require more support, then dentists will recommend placing dental crowns instead of dental fillings.
c. Root canals
If a tooth is abscessed, has a damaged nerve, or in infected, a root canal procedure may be required.
Cost of Dental Fillings:
In comparison to the traditional amalgam fillings, composite fillings can be more costly for three main reasons:
1. The materials are more expensive.
2. Composite fillings require the use of equipment.
3. The installation process is more complicated.
Furthermore, the cost of dental fillings are dependent on the following factors:
a. The dentist’s professional fee.
b. The extent and location of the damage.
c. Type of dental insurance of the patient.
d. The number of teeth to be restored.
Consultation and Planning of Treatment:
Tooth decay can be detected during cleaning sessions with the dentist. Upon suspecting that tooth decay is present, the dentist takes an X-ray to determine the location, and extent of the decay.
Upon confirming that there is indeed tooth decay, the dentist will then recommend the application of dental fillings to prevent further decay from occurring. The dentist will determine which dental filling option is best for the patient based on the following:
a. Medical history
b. Aesthetic needs
c. Location of the cavity
d. Biting force
e. Durability
f. Cost
g. Number of appointments necessary
h. Preferences of the patient
The Dental Filling Procedure:
Here is how the dental filling procedure should go:
1. The dentist prepares the tooth, and the surrounding areas, by using a local anesthetic.
2. The dentist proceeds with removing the damage or decay using laser or a dental hand-piece.
3. Before completing the restoration process, the area is cleansed to remove any remaining debris or bacteria.
4. The tooth then undergoes isolation, which is required to prevent moisture from getting in the way of the bonding process. This bonding process includes placing various adhesives that allow the dental fillings to connect to the tooth.
5. A special bonding light is used to harden the dental fillings. The restoration process is now complete.
Recovery and Dental Filling Aftercare:
After the procedure, the dentist will discuss with the patient the specific steps to take to prevent decay from forming around the filling. Here are the steps that the dentist may recommend:
a. Brush twice daily.
b. Floss once daily.
c. Follow your dental appointment schedule.
For overall dental health, the dentist may also recommend maintaining a healthy diet and limiting intake of sugary foods and drinks.
