Dental Filling in Providence & Central Falls, RI
Dental Fillingin Rhode Island
At Comfort Dental, fillings are applied to a tooth after dental decay has been removed by your dentist. While composite materials are commonly used for these fillings, there are also other options available for this purpose.
When would I need a filling?
Dental fillings are commonly required when a tooth is affected by decay, a result of bacteria consuming sugars from food and releasing acids. These acids erode the enamel, leading to cavities. Without early intervention, decay can advance to the tooth’s pulp chamber, endangering the nerve tissue and potentially necessitating a root canal treatment to save the tooth.
Teeth Filling Procedure in Rhode Island
Dental Fillings at Comfort Dental
At your dental filling appointment your dentist will first ensure the tooth is numb. Using either a laser or a high-speed handpiece, they will meticulously remove the decay. They’ll verify all decay has been cleared before continuing with the filling process.
The next steps involve disinfecting and preparing the tooth, applying a bonding agent, and then inserting and shaping the composite filling material. This material is packed firmly into the cavity, shaped for a natural look, and hardened with UV light. The final steps include adjusting and polishing the filling for a smooth finish.
The Filling Material
Composite filling material is made from a resin that includes either glass or quartz. This material is safe, being both non-toxic and BPA-free, making it an excellent choice for dental restorations.
It’s a tooth-colored substance with a putty-like consistency, available in various shades allowing your dentist in Providence, RI, to closely match the color of your natural teeth. When the filling material is placed into the cavity, it is then hardened using UV light, creating a durable bond with the tooth.
How Long Does A Composite Filling Last?
On average, composite resin fillings can last anywhere from five to seven years, but it’s not uncommon for them to last much longer in some patients. The lifespan of a composite filling can be influenced by several factors, including:
- The location of the filling within the mouth
- Whether the patient has habits such as clenching or grinding their teeth, known as bruxism
- The patient’s oral hygiene routine
- The patient’s diet
These conditions can impact the durability and longevity of composite fillings, making it crucial for patients to maintain good oral health practices and regular dental check-ups.
Removing Plaque & Surface Stains
Following the removal of tartar, your teeth will be polished with a slightly abrasive paste by the hygienist or assistant. This polishing not only leaves your teeth feeling exceptionally clean but also helps eliminate surface stains and any lingering plaque.
Other Dental Filling Options
While composite resin remains the most favored choice for fillings, dentists also provide alternatives like porcelain or gold fillings, known as dental inlays. These restorations boast a longer lifespan, often exceeding 10 years, and come with a higher price tag. The process for placing these inlays is more complex, involving the taking of dental impressions that are then sent to a lab for the creation of custom inlays. Some dental practices may utilize CAD/CAM technology to produce these restorations on-site, although appointments for such procedures will typically be longer than those for standard fillings.
Gum Disease Prevention in Rhode Island
Signs You Might Need A Filling
It’s worth noting that not everyone with dental decay exhibits symptoms. However, there are certain signs to watch for, indicating you might need a filling.
Dental decay symptoms
- White spots on the tooth indicating decalcification
- A dark spot (brown or black) on the tooth
- Sensitivity or pain, especially when consuming sweet foods
- Persistent toothache
- A missing existing filling
- Visible cracks or chips in a tooth
If you notice any of these indicators, it could suggest dental decay that may require a filling.
Personalized Dental Care in Rhode Island
Start Preventing Decay, Today.
We understand that the thought of getting a filling might be intimidating, but please rest assured that our top priority is to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. To help with this, we even provide sedation options for those who might need it.
Dental Fillings FAQs
What are dental fillings and why are they needed?
Dental fillings are restorations used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or minor trauma. During the procedure, the dentist removes the decayed or weakened portion of the tooth, cleans the cavity, and then fills the space with a durable material that bonds to the tooth. The goal is to restore the tooth’s strength, shape, and function while preventing the decay from progressing further.
What types of filling materials are used at Comfort Dental and what are their advantages?
Comfort Dental commonly uses tooth-colored composite resin fillings, which blend in with your natural teeth and provide both strength and aesthetic appeal. These composite materials bond directly to the tooth, helping to reinforce its structure and resist fracture. Because they match the tooth’s color, they avoid the noticeable contrast of metal restorations, making them ideal for visible areas of the smile.
What is the procedure like for getting a filling at Comfort Dental?
First, the dentist numbs the area around the affected tooth to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment. Next, decay and damaged tooth structure are removed, and the cavity is cleaned and prepared for filling. The composite material is then placed in layers and hardened with a special curing light, followed by shaping and polishing to integrate it with your bite and neighboring teeth.
How long do fillings last and when might they need replacement?
With proper care, composite fillings can last many years—typically around 7 to 10 years or longer—though longevity varies depending on factors like how much stress the tooth endures, your bite, oral hygiene, and habits like grinding or chewing hard objects. Fillings may need replacement if they wear, crack, chip, develop leakage or secondary decay, or if the tooth around them becomes compromised. Regular dental check-ups help monitor the condition of your fillings and detect issues early.
How should I care for my filled teeth and maintain overall oral health?
After receiving a filling, brushing twice per day and flossing daily remain essential to prevent new decay around the restoration. Avoid using your teeth to bite very hard items like ice or pens, and limit sticky or ultra-hard foods that can stress the filling. Attend regular dental cleanings and exams at Comfort Dental so your dentist can check for any signs of wear or problems and take action early if needed.
