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Are you experiencing some pain or sensitivity in your teeth? It could be a cavity! Don't worry; cavities are common and can easily be treated with dental fillings. So sit back and relax as we take you through everything you need to know about filling cavities with dental fillings!

What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a common dental procedure used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. It involves removing the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and replacing it with filling material, such as composite resin, amalgam, porcelain, or gold.

Getting a dental filling can help prevent further damage to your teeth while restoring their function and appearance. With proper care and regular check-ups at your dentist's office, your filled cavities can last for many years!

How Are Dental Fillings Placed?

The process of placing dental fillings is relatively straightforward and can be completed within an hour or less. Before the procedure begins, your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth to ensure that you don't feel any pain during treatment. Next, your dentist will use a specialized drill to remove decayed areas from the tooth. Once all signs of decay have been removed, the cavity is thoroughly cleaned to prepare it for filling material. 

Your dentist will then place a filling material into the prepared cavity using a composite resin or amalgam filling. The type of filling used depends on various factors, such as size and location of the cavity, cost considerations, and personal preference. After placing the filling material into your tooth's cavity, it is shaped and molded to match your natural teeth' contours perfectly. It is cured with a special light that hardens and strengthens it. Once complete, patients may experience slight sensitivity in their treated tooth for several days following placement but should otherwise expect no significant downtime after receiving their dental fillings!

What Are the Benefits of Dental Fillings?

Dental fillings are an effective solution for those who have cavities. Here are some benefits of dental fillings:

• Dental fillings restore the tooth's function by filling in the hole caused by decay. This means that you can chew and eat food without any pain or discomfort.
• Dental fillings prevent further damage to your teeth. When left untreated, cavities can lead to more significant problems, such as abscesses and gum disease. Filling a cavity early on will keep it from becoming worse.
• Dental fillings improve the appearance of your smile! With modern advancements in dentistry, you no longer need to have dark metal amalgam fillings in your mouth. Tooth-colored composite resin is now used instead, which blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
• Getting a filling is a quick and simple procedure that can be done in just one visit to the dentist! There is little downtime afterward, so you can get back to your normal routine right away.

There are many advantages of having dental fillings placed when needed. They not only fix the problem but also prevent future complications while improving the look and feel of your smile!

For the best dental care tailored to your needs, visit West Lake Dentistry at 298 N. Hwy 16 Suite E, Denver, NC 28037, or call (704) 483-1870.