When you consider that most people have more than one cavity in a lifetime and that there are over 300 million people in the United States, that is a lot of dental fillings. The procedure of placing a dental filling is common, to say the least. It can be quick, easy, and painless. The worst part of receiving a filling is the anticipation, and the sound of the drill. Today we outline the steps associated with placing a dental filling.
Why Get a Filling?
A dental filling is a way of saving your tooth from decay and saving you from pain. When the decay is removed from your tooth and the filling placed, the decaying process is stopped. Therefore, you can keep your natural tooth structure for years to come instead of getting the tooth pulled.
The Filling Process
Step #1: The first step to getting your tooth filled is numbing the area. Your dentist will administer an anesthetic to prevent your tooth from sending pain signals to your brain so the procedure will be pain free.
Step #2: Once your mouth is numb your dentist will remove the decayed tooth structure by grinding it away with a dental drill. At the same time the dental assistant will “vacuum up” excess water, saliva, and other debris from your mouth to keep it clean and comfortable.
Step #3: Once all of the decay has been removed the filling is placed. The procedure depends upon the type of filling (whether it is silver amalgam or white composite resin). The filling is added to the tooth and shaped.
Prevention
Proper dental hygiene can help reduce or prevent cavities. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, and attending dental checkups/professional cleanings twice a year.
ABOUT YOUR GRAND PRAIRIE DENTIST:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced general, restorative, and family dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter our Pecan Tree Dental office, and he offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether you and your family are new or returning patients, you can schedule a consultation or your next appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting us at (972) 262-5111.
