If you suffer from tooth decay, you should address it right away. One way to solve this concern is through dental fillings. Dental fillings can help extend the life of your teeth, so you should consider asking your dentist about this type of solution.

What Is Dental Filling?

A dental filling is the process of repairing a hole in your tooth. In the past, dentists used silver fillings until modern materials were developed.

Dental fillings are used to fix cavities after the decay has been removed from your tooth. Once the decay is removed, a dentist can insert a filling to block the hole. Most fillings come in a tooth-colored material. This way, you can blend it into the surrounding tooth.

What Happens during a Dental Filling Treatment?

A dental filling treatment starts with your dentist conducting a dental exam.

Your dentist needs to examine your teeth before a filling can be installed thoroughly. The decay is then removed from the tooth. If there is a large hole or a crack in the tooth, it needs to be repaired, or the tooth will need to be removed.

Once the decay is removed, a filling material will be placed in the hole. The filling material is shaped to fit the tooth and then set into place.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Fillings?

There are many benefits to dental fillings.

First, fillings can halt or slow down the progress of tooth decay. The filling seals the hole that is causing the decay. This is an excellent way to prevent future damage to your tooth.

Dental fillings also prevent the rest of your tooth from becoming weakened. If the decay isn’t removed and you continue to brush your teeth and eat food, it will cause your tooth to deteriorate.

How Do You Know If It’s Time to Get a Dental Filling?

To make sure your teeth don’t suffer from further damage, you should make an appointment with your dentist if you notice any of the following:

• A toothache
• A tooth pain that is worse than usual or does not go away
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Tooth discoloration
• Any change in the size of a tooth

In addition to keeping your teeth in good shape, you should also make a habit of scheduling regular dental visits. This way, you can address dental concerns before they become serious problems.

Will a Dental Filling Last Forever?

Depending on the material used and your individual oral health, a filling may last between five and 19 years. After that time period, you will need to schedule a replacement.

Some fillings can last longer, depending on the type of material. For example, porcelain fillings tend to last longer than composite fillings. This is because composite fillings are made from plastic materials. Nerve or tissue damage can also cause a dental filling to need to be replaced.

If a filling has reached the end of its lifespan, it will not be able to be repaired. You will need to schedule an appointment to have the filling replaced.

Even though a dental filling cannot last forever, it can help your teeth last longer. If you practice good oral hygiene, you may be able to avoid needing dental fillings for a long duration.

Final Thoughts

To ensure your teeth last a long time, you should make visiting the dentist a priority. Having a dental filling can extend the life of your tooth and help you maintain good oral health. If you notice any problems with your tooth, you should ask your dentist about a solution.

For dental care in Manassas, VA, give us a call at Liberia Dental Care. Our experienced dentists can help you with composite, ceramic, and porcelain dental fillings to address dental problems and restore your smile. Contact us today to book an appointment.