Your teeth shape your smile, influence your confidence, and play a crucial role in your overall health. However, damaged teeth can cause pain and discomfort, and poor oral hygiene has been linked to physical conditions such as heart disease.
Restorative dentistry procedures, such as dental fillings, can restore the structure of your teeth and prevent further decay. Call The Art of Dentistry San Diego today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how tooth fillings can help improve your overall health and maintain the function of your teeth.
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth damaged by fractures, wear, or decay. When a tooth develops a cavity, the decayed portion is removed and replaced with a material that restores tooth strength, function, and appearance. Fillings seal off bacteria and reinforce tooth structure, helping to prevent additional damage.
There are several types of dental fillings, including composite resin, amalgam, gold, and ceramic. Composite fillings blend with your natural teeth, while more durable materials like amalgam and other metals are more visible. Your choice of filling depends on where the cavity is located, its size, and personal preference.
If left untreated, cavities can lead to infection, tooth loss, and pain, making fillings essential to maintaining your oral health. With proper care from our San Diego team, fillings can preserve your teeth and keep your smile healthy and strong.
We highly recommend having your teeth cleaned twice a year. During each visit, our dentist will perform an examination to look for cavities and other dental concerns. Between visits to our San Diego office, take note of any signs that may indicate the need for fillings.
Cavities typically start small, but get larger when left untreated. Sensitivity when you are eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet food may be a sign you need a filling. In some cases, you may see visible holes or dark spots on a tooth that could suggest a cavity.
Persistent or occasional pain, especially when chewing, may also point to decay. Cavities cause holes or gaps in your tooth’s enamel, creating areas where food can get trapped. If you notice that food is frequently lodged in certain areas of your mouth, it could be because of a cavity.
The exact steps involved in filling a cavity at our San Diego office can vary depending on the material being used and the cavity’s size. Typically, your tooth will be numbed with local anesthesia so you do not experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure. The damaged and decayed tissue is removed, and the hole is filled with dental filling material.
When using a resin composite, a dental curing light will quickly harden the material. Finally, the edges will be polished and smoothed, and we will check your bite to make sure it feels comfortable and the filling fits correctly against the surrounding teeth.
Recovery after fillings is typically quick, and most San Diego patients can resume their normal activities immediately after their appointment. However, you may experience some minor sensitivity to pressure, heat, or cold immediately following the procedure and for a few days after.
Until the anesthetic has completely faded, it is important to avoid chewing on the treated side of your mouth. This helps prevent accidental biting of the cheek or tongue. In some instances, we may advise you not to eat for several hours if the anesthesia has affected the back of your tongue or mouth.
Most people are fully adjusted to how fillings feel in their mouth within a day or two. However, if your bite feels uneven or discomfort lasts more than a week, call us so we can make adjustments to improve your bite.
Fillings are an important way of protecting your health by stopping the progression of tooth decay and bacterial growth. If you think you may have a cavity or would like to have an oral examination, call The Art of Dentistry and schedule an appointment. Our San Diego team can discuss tooth fillings and the procedures we may use to improve your oral health and protect your smile.