Cavities and fillings are some of the most common reasons to visit your dentist. If your tooth is sore and the pain won’t go away, you could have a cavity. This pain will only get worse over time, and the only way to make it stop is by getting the cavity filled. We can perform emergency dental work, but it is always best to come in for yearly check-ups, which could even help catch the warning signs of cavities before fillings even become necessary.

While fillings don’t usually require emergency dental care, there are some rare instances when you need to see your dentist immediately. If you have any of the following symptoms, contact your dentist immediately:

• Severe toothache
• A toothache that lasts more than two days
• A toothache with fever or pain in your ear
• Severe pain when drinking cold beverages
• Pain in a tooth that has an old filling

Fillings Material (White Composite)

A composite (tooth-colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. You and the doctor can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth. Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth-colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile.

Who Needs Dental Fillings?

If your teeth are chipped, cracked or damaged by tooth decay, they need fillings. Large cavities are obvious and often painful, but small pinhole cavities and hard-to-see areas between teeth may also need attention. Your dentist can find cavities and sites of tooth decay that you may not see in the mirror. X-rays, dental probes, and dyes can reveal areas that need dental restoration. Your dentist can also see areas that you may not be able to spot, which is one reason why regular dental check-ups are vital for your oral health. Regular visits allow the dentist to see small problems before they become large ones.

Although cavities are the most common reason for fillings, they are not the only reason your dentist may recommend reconstructive work. If you grind your teeth, bite your nails or use your teeth as tools, you may erode the chewing surfaces enough to require a filling to restore a healthy bite.

How are composite fillings placed?

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay or old filling as necessary. That Space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the tooth’s nerve, a special medication will be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.