When you feel pain or discomfort, you might need a filling. However, teeth fillings in Roseville, MN, are varied and it’s difficult to choose which treatment is the perfect one for your needs. If you require help, please don’t be afraid to admit it. You’re not a professional!
The good news is, we are, which means we have the experience to guide you through the process as and when you are in the market for fillings.
What Are Fillings?
As the name suggests, a filling is a piece of material placed in your tooth. Usually, it’s required when decay leaves the tooth open, but it can be due to old age or damage from an accident. There are several materials to pick from, and it’s up to you which one is the most suitable. Of course, your dentist will always be on hand to offer advice.
The types of fillings are:
- Composite fillings
- Amalgam fillings
- Gold fillings
- Glass fillings
- Ceramic fillings
The material is dependent on several factors. For example, the composite kind is the most natural looking, yet they aren’t as cheap. Therefore, if you don’t have the budget, you could be better off with durable and long-lasting amalgam fillings.
When Do You Need Them?
Typically, teeth fillings are restorative measures designed to stop the decay of the pulp and expose the nerve. Therefore, if you experience erosion – signs include a sharp pain when chewing – it’s essential to cap the area to eliminate the discomfort. You also need them to prevent further damage to your mouth and gums since open teeth are sources of infection. If your dentist decides the tooth isn’t suitable for a filling, you will have to consider another method.
What Are the Benefits?
All fillings can stabilize a tooth that is decaying and vulnerable to bacteria. Still, lots of advantages will depend on the type of tooth filling.
- Appearance: Composite fillings are created to appear tooth-colored. Apart from protecting you from pain, this means they are fantastic at subtly covering the infected area.
- Durability: Amalgam fillings are made from a mixture of metals, such as silver. While they don’t match the inside of your mouth, they are stronger and less likely to wear, meaning you’ll spend less and have fewer trips to the dentist in the long run. The same applies to gold fillings, although they are more expensive.
- Staining: Ceramic fillings are stain-resistant. This means smoking or drinking alcohol and soda won’t lead to discoloration.
- Less invasive: Composite and amalgam fillings are the least invasive since they bond to your teeth. Patients prefer this feature as it requires less drilling, and in some cases, no local anesthetic or pain.
- Protect the gum line: glass is used when there is a lot of decay in and below the gum line due to its robust nature.
How Does It Work?
Once you and your dentist decide which filling type you want, the decay needs removing from your tooth. This is done with a drill, and a numbing agent is used to limit the pain. Next, the area is molded to fit the filling. When the material is positioned, the dentist will harden it to ensure it sets correctly.