Dental fillings are one of the most common types of procedures a dentist will perform. Though most patients know dental fillings are a necessary part of cavity treatment, it’s actually not the only reason you may need one.
Dental fillings are extremely versatile and can play a huge role in improving both the health and appearance of your smile.
Keep reading to understand everything you need to know about dental fillings.
What Are Dental Fillings?
A dental filling is a special material used to repair or restore a tooth. The material itself is quite malleable, so the dentist can use it to reconstruct a tooth if necessary.
Once this malleable material is applied, the dentist uses a tool that emits light to harden it. So, the dental filling stays firmly in place and can support the chewing needs of the patient.
Why Are Dental Fillings Used?
Dental fillings have a lot of great benefits that showcase just how important their role is for a patient’s oral health:
1. It Can Stop a Cavity from Growing
If you have a cavity, the dentist will need to clean all the decayed tissue from the tooth, which will leave a hole.
Sometimes, if the cavity is large, this can expose the sensitive nerves inside the tooth and allow harmful bacteria to attack it. A dental filling is used to seal this hole and protect the sensitive parts of the tooth.
Not only that, but dental fillings also prevent the tooth’s nerves from being exposed to the temperature of the food you eat. Without them, you’d experience sharp pain every time you ate something hot or cold.
2. It Can Prevent a Cavity
Cavities form in stages, and sometimes a tiny hole in the tooth might not technically be a cavity yet. But if it’s left untreated, it will become one.
Dental fillings can prevent this. The dentist applies a bit of composite material that will protect this area from coming into contact with food particles and bacteria.
3. It Can Restore the Strength of a Tooth
If your tooth is chipped or cracked, a dental filling can restore both its look and strength. The dentist reconstructs the tooth using the filling, so you can continue to chew your food without worrying it will cause further damage.
4. It Can Improve the Tooth’s Appearance
A composite filling can match your natural tooth color. It can even be used to reconstruct or reshape your front teeth and improve their appearance.
This can lead to a subtle yet pleasant improvement in your smile.
Get a Dental Filling at Del Mar Dental Studio
If you’re dealing with a cavity, a cracked tooth, or any other issue that a dental filling may fix, Dr. Todd Pizzi at Del Mar Dental is here to help.
Book a consultation at Del Mar Dental Studio online, or call our office at (858) 755-0187 today.
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