Tooth Fillings
Are you hiding your smile due to a cavity or other dental issue? Do you experience sharp pain or discomfort in your tooth? Have you noticed black or brown spots on your teeth?
If any of this sounds familiar, it is time to visit your dentist for a tooth filling.
Tooth fillings are a time-tested solution that can help restore oral health and alleviate any pain or discomfort associated with cavities. Fillings are placed directly into the cavity of the tooth structure, protecting it from further damage and restoring functionality.
At General & Cosmetic Dentistry of Tampa, we offer a range of tooth-filling services. Whether you opt for a traditional silver amalgam or a more discreet tooth-colored composite filling, our experienced dentists and staff will provide expert care and use the appropriate filling materials for a lasting result.
Don’t wait any longer to restore your smile. Visit us at either of our Tampa offices today and find out how tooth fillings can help improve your oral health.
What Are Tooth Fillings?
A tooth filling is a dental procedure used to repair teeth damaged by decay, cavities, cracks, fractures, or infection. During the procedure, a dentist will remove any decayed or damaged portion of the tooth so only the sound tooth structure remains. They will fill the resulting space with dental filling materials, whether it be silver fillings or composite resin material. This helps to restore the tooth’s shape, strength, and function.
Fillings are most commonly made of either amalgam fillings (mercury, copper, tin, and silver) or composite resin fillings (tooth-colored fillings), although other materials, such as gold fillings and porcelain, may also be used.
Your dentist at General & Cosmetic Dentistry of Tampa will do a thorough evaluation to determine which type of filling is best for you.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
The longevity of a filling depends on several factors, such as the type of filling material used, the size and location of the filling, and the overall oral hygiene habits of the patient.
Composite fillings have been known to last up to 5–7 years, while silver amalgam fillings can last up to 10–15 years or longer.
It’s important to note that fillings can become worn or damaged over time, especially with excessive biting forces, tooth grinding or clenching, and other habits that put extra pressure on the teeth. In some cases, fillings may need to be replaced or repaired sooner than expected.
During a Tooth Filling Procedure
Before beginning the filling procedure, your dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area. Once the affected area is numb, your dentist will use a drill to remove any decayed parts of the tooth and then clean out the cavity. They may have to perform a root canal procedure if the infection has spread beyond the surrounding tooth structure.
Your dentist will then apply the cavity filling material and shape it to fit comfortably in your mouth. A special light is used to harden or cure the material, creating a bond between the filling and the tooth.
Once the filling is cured, your dentist will polish it to ensure a comfortable fit.
After a Tooth Filling Procedure
After a tooth-filling procedure, you may experience some sensitivity, discomfort, or mild pain in the treated area. You should avoid eating or drinking for at least an hour and avoid hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours.
Continue to brush and floss your teeth as usual, and be gentle around the newly filled tooth. If you experience any unusual symptoms or severe pain, contact your dentist right away.
You can trust our experienced dentists at General & Cosmetic Dentistry of Tampa to provide you with the highest quality tooth filling services. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Are Dental Fillings Safe?
Yes, dental fillings are considered safe. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that dental fillings are a safe and effective treatment for tooth decay. The materials used for dental fillings, such as composite resin, amalgam, and porcelain, have been extensively tested and approved by regulatory agencies like the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
It is important to discuss any concerns you may have about dental fillings with your dentist, who can provide more information and guidance. Overall, dental fillings are considered a safe and common treatment for tooth decay.
Protect Your Smile With High-Quality Dental Fillings
Ignoring cavities and tooth decay can be dangerous for your oral health. Tooth decay left untreated can lead to serious problems like infections and abscesses and even result in tooth loss.
At General & Cosmetic Dentistry of Tampa, we offer durable and natural-looking dental fillings to help prevent these issues and protect your smile.
Don’t let tooth decay go unchecked – book an appointment with us today and get the dental fillings you need to keep your teeth healthy.
To learn if you are a good candidate for dental fillings, please call us at our North Tampa office at (813) 960-5869 or our South Tampa office at (813) 874-5869 to schedule a consultation.
