What are Dental Fillings?
Imagine you’ve just visited your dentist for a checkup and your dentist tells you that you need a filling. You are not alone; many people require a filling at least once in their lifetime.
A tooth filling is a treatment used to repair a damaged tooth and restore it to its normal functionality and shape while preventing it from decaying further.
The filling that will suit you best will depend on the location of the cavity, the extent of repair, if you have any allergies to filling materials, and the cost.
At Keystone Dental, we offer a range of filling materials, including composite, silver amalgam and ceramic. Your dentist can help determine what the best option is for your situation.
Signs You Need a Dental Filling
Cavities form when sugars interact with bacteria on your teeth and make acids that dissolve your enamel. The cavities may form on the chewing surfaces, near the roots, or around existing fillings.
If you're experiencing some or all of the following symptoms, please contact our office for an examination:
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Dark Spots
- Intense or Throbbing Pain
- Chipped or Fractured Tooth
Dental Filling Replacements
Over time, dental fillings may become loose, chipped, or worn out. At this point, they no longer seal the gap effectively, and bacteria may enter the tooth chamber. Failing dental fillings may increase the likelihood of decay, infections, and gum disease.
During your routine dental examination, your dentist will check your dental fillings for damage and let you know if they recommend a replacement filling to help preserve your oral health.
In some situations, patients may also want to replace silver-mercury amalgam fillings with composite tooth-coloured fillings for improved aesthetics.