Last Updated on October 28, 2024

Dental Fillings RiverviewArticle about: Dental Fillings Riverview, FL.

Anyone who has had cavities knows the excruciating pain they can cause. Cavities, also known as tooth decay, occur when the hard outer layer of a tooth, called the enamel, is damaged. These cavities lead to the formation of holes or openings in the tooth, which can worsen over time if left untreated.

Before we get to the prevention of cavities part in this blog, let’s first understand what cavities are, and what the symptoms and reasons for cavities are.

What Are Cavities?

Cavities are small holes in the tooth’s surface, caused by a variety of factors, from poor oral hygiene to excessive sugar consumption. Cavities are primarily caused by the buildup of harmful bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria feed on the sugars and starches in the foods we eat, producing acids that gradually erode the tooth’s protective enamel.

Symptoms of Cavities

Dental cavities are easy to overlook because they start small and are not easily noticeable. Following are the reasons that indicate that you have tooth decay or cavities:

  • Sensitivity, especially when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
  • Visible holes or discoloration in the tooth enamel
  • Bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth

Solution for Cavities: Dental Fillings

Introduction to Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a restorative dental treatment that can effectively repair and rebuild damaged tooth structures. When a tooth develops a cavity, dental fillings serve as an essential solution to prevent further decay and preserve the overall health of the tooth.

Dental Fillings Riverview | Types of Dental Fillings

The following are the two most common types of dental fillings.

Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

Dentists have been using Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, for decades because of their durability and cost-effectiveness. These fillings are composed of a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, tin, and copper.

Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings

In contrast to amalgam (silver) fillings, composite fillings are made from a resin-based material that is designed to match the natural color of the tooth. Consequently, patients prefer this type of filling because it matches the color of their teeth and is aesthetically pleasing. However, they are not as durable as amalgam fillings and may need to be replaced more frequently.

The Dental Filling Procedure

The dental filling procedure typically involves two main steps: preparing the tooth and placing the filling material.

Preparing the Tooth

The preparation step includes:

  • Administering a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth
  • Removing the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth using specialized dental tools
  • Cleaning the cavity to ensure it is free of any remaining decay or debris
  • Shaping the tooth to create a suitable surface for the dental filling material

Placing the Filling Material

This process includes:

  • Applying a bonding agent to help the filling material adhere to the tooth
  • Carefully molding and shaping the filling material to restore the tooth’s natural contours
  • Hardening the filling material using a special curing light or chemical hardening agent
  • Polishing the filling material to ensure a smooth, comfortable finish

Dental Fillings Riverview | Conclusion

As described in this blog, cavities can be painful and lead to tooth decay. Thankfully, dental fillings actively restore tooth structure and, therefore, prevent further decay. As we discussed, there are two popular types of dental fillings. Visit us at Riverview Dental Arts Clinic or book a consultation to evaluate your cavities. We’ll help you choose the best type of fillings for your needs.


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