Your dentist in Orlando can quickly and easily fill cavities. You no longer need to fear going to the dentist for these routine restorations. In fact, we have easier and better access to good oral health than people once did. This means you need fewer cavity filling treatments and don’t suffer from cavities or their repair.

How a Cavity Filling Works

A woman receives a cavity filling from her dentistCavity filling takes place at your dentist’s office. When you need a cavity filled, plan to stay at the dental practice for about an hour. You should also expect digital X-rays if your dentist needs those for the clearest picture of your dental health.

Your dentist starts your tooth filling by numbing your teeth, gums and other tissues. You don’t feel pain during this procedure and quickly rebound afterward, going back to your normal daily routine.

After you feel numb, the dentist drills out the decay. This provides space for the composite, porcelain, glass or metal amalgam filling. Composite fillings provide a color match to your natural teeth. This makes it so no one but you and the dentist ever have to know that you had a cavity.

The actual filling only takes a few pain-free minutes. Your mouth and your cheek will likely feel numb for a while, but this usually only lasts for a few hours.

Tooth fillings often restore other damage besides tooth decay. Filling material works well for replacement of part of a broken tooth, just as it fixes the damage that results from grinding your teeth.

Taking Care of Your Cavity Fillings

Your discomfort will end quickly after you undergo a cavity repair procedure. Even though the dentist fixed your decayed tooth, you still must keep up with a good daily oral care routine. You’ll also need to visit the dentist twice yearly for regular checkups.

If you experience tooth sensitivity after your filling, try using toothpaste and other products for sensitivity and tooth protection. These also help you prevent new cavities from forming.

How Long Do Fillings Last?

Today’s fillings last for years. Eventually, though, you will need to visit the dentist for filling replacement. When you maintain a regular schedule of routine checkups, the dentist tells you when you need to get your filling replaced.

Fillings mainly wear out after many years of eating and chewing. If you grind or clench your teeth, your fillings wear out faster.

Cracks or worn areas provide signs of problems with the filling or your tooth, itself. When you notice these changes, visit your dentist as soon as possible. The dentist may need to replace your filling. Waiting to see the dentist for a repair leads to greater expense and complication than an early dental visit.

Where Do You Gain Quality Dental Care, Including Tooth Fillings?

Whether you need fillings, Lumineers, teeth whitening, porcelain crowns or other dental procedures, you find those services in Orlando at S. Keith Mahan, DDS. Call us at 407-841-7241 now for your cavity filling or check up appointment.