7 Things You Need to Know About Cavities and Dental Fillings
Typically, dental decay is the most common dental problem, especially among teens and younger children. However, there are many people who are not fully aware of this problem or how it can be treated. In this blog, we will discuss one of the most common cavity treatments, dental fillings, and cavities in detail.
What Causes Cavities?
Typically, dental decay or cavity is caused by bacteria. Our mouths usually have bacteria to help with digestions. However, a section of the bacteria is responsible for causing tooth decay and other infections. When the bacteria meet with food particles, they combine to form acids. These acids then attack the enamel leading to cavities.
How Can You Prevent Cavities?
The best prevention for dental cavities is maintaining proper oral hygiene. Brush and floss your teeth as recommended (brush twice and floss at least once daily). Then, make sure to visit the dentist at least twice a year.
However, that is not always enough. Your dentist may recommend extra measures to prevent cavities, especially for the younger children. In most cases, he will recommend fluoride treatment and dental sealants. With those two preventive measures, your child can grow a cavity-free.
What is a Dental Filling?
The tooth filling procedure is often used for cosmetic and restorative purposes. For restorative purposes, it is usually used to treat cavities. Here are important facts you should know about the treatment.
Dental Fillings are Available in Various Materials
Sometime back, the only option for dental fillings was amalgam (silver). That has changed, and there are various options, including composite resin fillings and metal fillings (gold). The composite resin fillings match a patient’s teeth’ color, and they are often recommended for front teeth. In fact, some people call them front tooth fillings.
There are also glass ionomer fillings often used for non-chewing teeth or younger children who haven’t developed permanent teeth. Ceramic fillings are pretty much like composite fillings, and they can be used for both front and back teeth. Your dentist will help you choose the best option. Our dentist in Toronto, ON, can help you if you need fillings in Toronto.
The Procedure Often Takes One Visit to the Dentist
Typically, the dental filling procedure is short and will not take you more than one visit to the dentist. In most cases, the dentist won’t even need to use anesthesia. However, if the tooth is severely decayed, anesthesia becomes a necessity. The dentist will sedate you, drill a hole to remove the decay, and then fill it with a material of your choice.
If you are to be sedated, kindly come with someone to drive you home after the procedure. The sedation may affect your concentration, which might lead to an accident. As the saying goes, “it is better to be safe than sorry.” If you don’t have someone to drive you, call a cab.
Dental Fillings Are Not Indestructible
With time, the dental fillings will begin wearing down. After all, nothing lasts forever. Even your natural teeth wear down with time. Typically, dental fillings can last for up to 15 years, depending on the filling material and how well they were installed. Amalgam fillings can last up to 15 years, while composite resin ones can last for up to ten years. Just ensure to take proper care of them.
Fillings Can Be Affected by Decay
Getting dental fillings does not mean you should abandon your care routine. You will still need to visit the dentist as recommended and maintain proper oral hygiene.
Typically, the cavity-causing acids will not affect the filling material. However, fillings can crack, exposing the natural tooth to the acids, leading to cavities.
There Are Other Dental Cavities Treatments
If the tooth is too decayed, dental fillings may not work. Your dentist will suggest a dental crown, and if that still fails, a root canal treatment will be recommended. In most cases, the root canal will work. If it doesn’t, the tooth will need to be extracted.
Arlington Dental Clinic
If you need dental fillings in Toronto, ON, you are in the right place. We accept new patients, and you can count on us with other dental services, including sealants, braces, dentures, and more. Book an appointment today.