Have you ever been informed that you require a filling and felt scared or puzzled? You are not the only one. A large number of people either get worried about dental fillings or believe some things that are not true. But fillings are the means of getting one’s tooth back to normal safely and easily and also to stop the pain. If you want to get dental fillings in Ambleside, it is a good idea to understand the facts first and then have your treatment.
When a tooth has decay or injury, fillings are the treatment solution. They not only help the tooth but also keep the smile healthy. Firstly, let’s find out what the common misconceptions about dental fillings are and what questions you may have.
Myth 1: Fillings Are Painful
Fact: Getting a filling doesn’t hurt. Your dentist will numb the area so you won’t feel anything during the treatment. Most people say it feels like getting a regular cleaning or checkup. Afterward, your tooth might feel a little sensitive, but that goes away quickly.
Myth 2: Only Kids Need Fillings
Fact: The likelihood of the decay can be in children, teenagers, and adults; hence, it is not only kids who get fillings. Even brushing and flossing regularly does not make one immune to cavities. The decayed area is removed with the help of fillings, and the rest of the tooth is protected from getting worse.
Myth 3: Fillings Don’t Last Long
Fact: The fillings can stay for many years if the individual maintains his/her oral hygiene. Some dental fillings, such as silver or gold, can have a very long life. Your dentist will assist you in choosing the right one based on the condition of your teeth and your requirements.
When Do You Need Dental Fillings?
You might need a filling if:
- A painful or sensitive tooth.
- Seeing a black spot or a hole in a tooth.
- Food gets stuck in the same place frequently.
- Discovering a cavity by the dentist during a checkup.
If you are asking when you need dental fillings, the best place to put that question would probably be in the dental clinic, where the dentist would be able to give you the most satisfactory answer. The earlier the decay talks go for fillings, the better. The longer you wait, the more the decay gets worse, the bigger the treatment it will require, such as root canals or crowns.
What Happens During a Filling?
Below are the steps you can expect:
- Step 1: The dentist first looks at the tooth and takes an X-ray.
- Step 2: They numb the part, so you cannot feel any pain.
- Step 3: They remove the decay of the tooth.
- Step 4: They clean the cavity and fill it with a safe material.
- Step 5: They finish and polish the filling so it feels comfortable.
Most of the time, the whole process is less than an hour.
Are Fillings Safe?
Definitely! The materials used to make fillings are safe for the body. Generally, there are:
- Composite (white) fillings, which are the colour of one’s teeth.
- Amalgam (silver) fillings that are strong and long-lasting.
- Gold or ceramic fillings for specific cases.
As an aid to your decision-making, the dentist will point out the different alternatives and explain which is the most suitable option for you.
How to Take Care of Your Fillings
To keep your fillings strong and your teeth healthy, you should:
- Brush two times a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day to get the areas between the teeth clean
- Do not bite on or chew things that are hard, like ice or pens.
- Go to the dentist for your regular checkups.
In case your filling feels loose or if your tooth is hurting again, make sure that you call your dentist immediately.
FAQs About Dental Fillings
Can I eat after a filling?
Yes, but wait until the numbness wears off. Avoid hard or sticky foods for a few hours.
Will people notice my filling?
Not if you choose a white filling. It blends in with your natural tooth.
Do fillings fix all tooth problems?
Fillings only cover the repair of small to medium cavities; a larger problem will be taken care of with crowns or other methods of general dentistry.
Ready to Protect Your Smile?
Fillings are a simple way to stop decay in the teeth and keep the dental health of the whole body. Do not allow myths and fears to take control of you and prevent you from getting the treatment that you need and that you are worthy of. We at Smart Dental Art put in a lot of effort to make sure that every appointment is a pleasure and an easy process.
Do you need a trusted dentist near you, specializing in gentle, authoritative care? Call us today to make an appointment, and we would love to help you smile!