Dental fillings are common restorative procedures that most people undergo at some point in their lives. Tooth decay is a common dental problem and is usually minor but can grow and cause more serious issues if it’s left untreated. Some cavities cause symptoms while others cause none at all. Cavities are found in adults as well as children and are caused by a variety of different things such as: bacteria, drinking or eating too much sugar, and poor dental hygiene. The best preventative measure to avoid cavities and tooth decay involve regular check-ups at your dentist office and making sure you are brushing well and flossing regularly. While these measures will lower your chances of experiencing cavities significantly, they cannot always be completely avoided. If that’s the case with you we encourage you to visit our office at Bismarck Advanced Dental and Implants to receive the treatment you need.
Reasons Why Dental Fillings May Be Needed
There are many reasons why a filling may be needed. During your regular dental check-ups, your dentist will use a mirror to look at all your teeth from every angle to look for any cavities, discoloration, or extra sensitive areas. X-rays may also be used to determine extent of tooth decay when cavities are present. Other indications you may need dental fillings include sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks, toothaches that won’t go away on their own, and difficulty flossing. Broken or chipped teeth may also require fillings for treatment.
Different Kinds of Dental Fillings
The most popular treatment for cavities nowadays are fillings. A dental filling procedure is one of the fastest and most affordable treatment options for cavities and tooth decay. Since every patient’s situation is different, there are different types of fillings available depending on the situation. Each dental office also varies in the kinds of fillings they offer. Some available fillings include:
Amalgam
These are some of the oldest types of fillings and are known for being strong and durable and hold up to many years of use before needing to be fixed. These types of fillings are ideal for teeth not easily seen such as molars since they can be noticeable when you smile if they are in teeth towards the front of the mouth. The biggest advantage of these fillings is the very low cost.
Ceramic
Ceramic fillings are usually made from porcelain material and are tooth-colored. These fillings are ideal for teeth that can be seen when you smile or laugh because they are one the most natural looking. While these have many advantages, one of the disadvantages of these filling is the cost.
Composite
These fillings are durable and can be made to match the color of your teeth so they blend it while also treating the cavity. These fillings are best for small restorations.
Metals
The fillings can be gold or silver. While both of these metal fillings are similar in functionality, gold fillings can be almost 10 times more expensive than silver fillings. While a lot of patients do not prefer the look of metal fillings, they can last 10-15 years longer than composite or ceramic fillings.
Tips on Maintaining Your Fillings
Dental fillings can last for many years especially with the proper maintenance. Being extra careful with what you eat can go a long way. Hard and sugary food can not only wear down your teeth in general, these foods are especially harsh on fillings. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly will also help with longevity of your fillings as well as aid in maintaining your overall dental health.
In addition to maintenance of your fillings, making sure you have cracked or broken fillings replaced and fixed is also important in the prevention and treatment of tooth decay. Visit our Bismarck Advanced Dental and Implants office today to schedule an appointment to find out more about our dental fillings.
