Dental Fillings
Fixing Cavities and Tooth Repair
Fillings for cavities and tooth repair are a very common dental procedure. About 78% of people in the US have at least one cavity by the time they reach 17. Although filling a tooth is not an invasive surgery, you must take it seriously. Fillings fix the part of the tooth that is decaying by replacing it with a filling material of your choice. Dentists also use fillings to repair broken or cracked teeth or teeth with natural wear and tear. Your filling type depends on several factors, including the shape of your tooth, your response to the materials to be used, which tooth needs to be filled, and the amount of repair required.
Types of Fillings
Professional whitening makes use of high-concentration bleaching gels that are not available over the counter.
Composite Fillings
Composites are the filling that most people get. Composite fillings can closely match the color of your tooth, so people may never even realize you have a filling! We use composite resin to fill in where there was decay, or broken, chipped, or worn teeth. Our dentists will mix the composite filling, place it in the cavity or crack, and allow it to dry there until it is hard. Then they sand off any rough edges to finish the process.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
If the problem is below the gum line, glass ionomers can be used. Glass ionomer is made from glass and acrylic. They cost the same as composite fillings, but do not last longer. Glass ionomers release fluoride, which can shield the tooth from further decay. However, this material is weaker than composite and is more susceptible to wear and prone to fracture.
What to Expect After a Filling
The numbness caused by the local anesthesia should wear off in a few hours. During this period, you may be taking pain medications that could make you very sleepy. If this is the case, the dentist will want someone to be with you for the first 24 hours, in case you have any complications and need assistance. It is purely precautionary, but it is highly recommended.
It’s best to avoid drinking hot or cold liquids and to eat on the side of your mouth with the new filling. Sensitivity to hot and cold is typical in the first few weeks after getting a tooth filled.
If sensitivity continues beyond that, or you have any severe pain when biting, please let us know. Continue to brush and floss as normally, and visit our office at least twice per year for regular checkups and cleanings.
About Florida Children’s Dentistry
We understand that going to the dentist can be overwhelming and scary. That’s why we strive to make the experience pleasant, easy, and fun for your child. We aim to create lifelong, healthy dental habits through education and positive experiences in the dentist’s chair.
Convenient South Florida Locations
Getting to the dentist has never been easier. We’ve got many convenient locations in South Florida, and many more coming soon! Take a tour of our offices, so you’ll know what to expect when you get here!