If you are suffering from a cavity, you might be wondering how you can get it fixed or how you can get started with a dental filling appointment in Chatham. The best way to get started is to give a local Chatham dentist a call to schedule an appointment for your filling. The dentist will first take a few x-rays to confirm your diagnosis and then perform a routine dental filling treatment. It’s typically very simple!
If you have tooth decay, you may require a dental filling
This article will discuss three types of dental filling materials:
Gold
Copper
Composite
While gold and composite are the most common types of fillings, the other two types are also quite common. Gold fillings are usually more expensive than composite fillings.
Indirect fillings are similar to composite fillings but are created in a laboratory rather than a dental office. These types of fillings are used when the structure of the tooth is not enough to support a traditional filling, but the tooth is not too badly damaged to warrant a full restoration.
Indirect fillings
Indirect dental fillings are made in a dental lab from ceramic material instead of a tooth’s enamel. These restorations are tooth-colored, but they’re not as strong as metal or ceramic restorations. In general, indirect fillings require two visits to the dentist. Once a cavity is prepared, your dentist in Chatham will make a temporary covering for the tooth, and then work in a dental laboratory to create the desired restoration. The dental lab will then cement the restoration into place.
Indirect dental fillings are made in a dental laboratory and then bonded to the tooth. This treatment will restore aesthetics and function. They are most commonly made from porcelain or a special type of hard composite. They are often tooth-colored and durable. In some cases, our dentist Chatham trusts will remove the decayed and damaged parts and reshape the healthy tissue.
Gold fillings
While it used to be that only the rich and famous had gold fillings in their teeth, modern dentistry has changed all of that. Gold fillings are strong, durable, and long-lasting, and they can last 15 years or more. Another benefit of gold fillings is that they look attractive, and they are less expensive than other materials. But gold fillings are not a perfect solution for everyone.
However, this option may not be covered by your insurance. Many insurance plans have a deductible that you must pay before the insurer will cover the cost. Therefore, if you had a cavity requiring a $250 gold filling, you would pay only $50 after your deductible. You can get silver fillings if you prefer, as they are cheaper and typically last longer.
Metal fillings
Amalgam or metal amalgam is a combination of powdered metals dissolved within elemental liquid mercury. Copper, silver, tin, and other trace elements are added to the mixture. Its durability and resistance to wear and damage makes it an excellent choice for dental fillings. There are several benefits of this material, which can last up to 15 years. But how do you know if you need a metal filling?
Composite fillings
Composite fillings are tooth-colored and are offered by most dentists.
Before a composite filling is placed, your dentist in Chatham will first use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. The dentist will then remove the decayed part of the tooth and clean the area. They will also etch the tooth and bond it to the filling. Next, your dentist will layer a composite material into the cavity. Then, he will use a special light to cure each layer. After he has completed the process, he will shape and polish your tooth.
Tooth-colored fillings are made of a composite resin containing glass and plastic particles. This material closely resembles the color and structure of natural tooth enamel. Unlike metal fillings, tooth-colored fillings can last a lifetime and can be removed without affecting the natural look of your smile. The procedure is similar to that of traditional dental fillings, except that tooth-colored fillings are cured by light rather than a needle.
To prepare the tooth for tooth-colored fillings, your dentist in Chatham will clean the space. Next, he or she will clean the area and remove any debris from the cavity or cracked tooth. This will help the filling stay in place. After the filling has been installed, the dentist will shape and polish it. Once this is complete, the tooth will look perfect. If you take good care of your fillings, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Temporary Tooth Fillings
When you’re in need of a dental filling, you can opt to have a temporary filling installed. Temporary fillings are usually not as durable as permanent ones, so be extra careful when you’re brushing and flossing. Flossing should be done by pulling the floss out of between the teeth, not up and around the temporary filling. Temporary fillings do not have the same durability as real teeth, so it’s crucial that you follow all instructions provided by your dentist in Chatham. You might want to avoid chewing crunchy or sticky foods. You may also want to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to prevent loosening your temporary dental filling.
Although temporary dental fillings are not meant to be permanent, you still need to practice proper dental hygiene at home. This means brushing your teeth twice a day, for at least two minutes. This is important because temporary fillings often come out easily. You’ll also need to be extra careful when brushing and flossing around the temporary filling to avoid irritating it. Depending on where you’ve placed your temporary dental filling, you may need to repeat the procedure.
A Dentist Chatham Trusts for Dental Fillings
If you’re searching for a dentist, Chatham is home to one of our offices at Brookside Family Dental. For caring and compassionate service from a dentist Chatham trusts, get in touch with our team for a healthy, beautiful smile you have always wanted! Give us a call today at 226-494-4000 for your dental filling needs, or if you are searching for a dentist in Chatham for Tooth Fillings.
