Z – Dental Fillings Treatment Royal Palm Beach

What is a dental filling?

A dental filling is made from materials used to repair a decayed tooth. Once the dentist removes the decay, a filling is placed to fill and seal the space. It will restore the tooth’s natural shape. The filling material is subject to specific requirements. It should seal the given space very tightly, resemble the tooth’s color, be durable and remain chemically stable.

How do I know if I need a filling?

You can’t always tell when you need of a filling. Not every decayed tooth has symptoms. Sometimes you may not feel anything until the decay has progressed too far and the tooth requires a root canal. You might need a filling if you experience tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, sweets or if you can notice a visible hole or dark spot on a tooth.

What happens if I don’t get a cavity filled?

Delaying treatment will only allow the decay to continue growing. Some cavities grow very slowly and others grow rapidly. In either case, the decay will eventually become large enough to cause nerve damage, which will require a root canal. 

How can I prevent tooth decay and dental fillings?

Brush and floss daily with fluoride toothpaste. Limit how often you consume sugary snacks and drinks. It is the frequency that matters more than the quantity. Sticky foods tend to adhere to teeth and remain in place for a much longer period of time, making them more likely to cause decay. Sugary and carbonated drinks can easily reach the grooves and pits of your teeth and cause decay. Some individuals may still develop cavities as certain teeth have unique anatomy that makes them more prone to plaque buildup and tooth decay.  

How long is a filling appointment?

Most fillings take 30 to 60 minutes. The exact time depends on how quickly the tooth becomes numb, how many fillings are needed, the size of the decay, the tooth’s location, ease of access, and how wide you can open your mouth.

Does the filling procedure hurt?

Our priority is to ensure the tooth remains numb and you are as comfortable as possible during your treatment. You should not feel anything during the procedure as long as the tooth remains numb. It is normal to have some sensitivity afterwards for a few days which gradually goes away. 

When can I eat after a filling?

As a general rule, you should not eat while your mouth remains numb, as you could accidentally bite your check, lips or tongue without realizing it. The numbness can last from 1-3 hours. If you received a composite (tooth-colored) filling, you can eat once the numbing wears off. If you received a silver filling (uncommon nowadays) then you should avoid hard foods for 24 hours, as the material takes time to harden.

Why is my tooth sensitive after a filling?

Mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure is quite common during the first few days. As a rule of thumb, the deeper the filling, the longer the sensitivity may last. The nerve of the tooth needs time to adjust. If the discomfort lasts more than 1–2 weeks or if it intensifies, you should contact your dentist.  

How long do dental fillings last?

Nothing lasts forever. The long-term success of a filling depends on many factors, including the quality of the procedure, the size of the filling, the integrity of the seal, proper oral hygiene, etc. One of the most common causes of failure is leakage where bacteria penetrate past the seal and cause new caries under the existing filling. Failure can also occur if the filling fractures due to excessive biting forces. Good brushing, flossing and avoiding hard foods will extend the lifespan of fillings which can last anywhere from few years to over a decade.

Can a filling fracture or fall out?

Yes, fillings can loosen or fall out due to wear, decay developing under the filling, biting hard foods or adhesive failure. If this happens, see your dentist for an evaluation.