Everything You Need to Know About Your First Filling

Over the years, preventative dentistry techniques have evolved making our patients have a much lower risk of tooth decay when compared to generations in the past. This doesn’t eliminate your risk entirely, however. So if you’ve found out you have a cavity or suspect you have one for the very first time, here’s the process you can expect when getting your first filling:

Selection of Filling Material

Depending on the location and severity of your cavity, the type of material used for your filling is important. Usually, a tooth colored composite material is used but when your cavity is large, a stronger material is needed made from ceramic. In order to mirror the color of your natural tooth and smile, both ceramic and composite fillings come in various shades.

Numbing the tooth

At SDG, we will use a small amount of local anesthetic in order to make sure you don’t feel any pain during this procedure. Essentially, a numbing jelly is applied before injecting the anesthetic, which will in turn numb the nerves around the affected area.

Decay Removal

We will then make use of small dental bur to clean away any tooth structure that shows signs of decay as well as enamel surrounding it to avoid spread of infection.

Filling Placement

The filling will then be shaped into the affected tooth in a manner that imitates the actual contour and surface of the tooth. Once cured into place, this tooth will function as usual! It does take a few hours for the numbing to also wear off, however.

After-Care

Your filling can last for several years if you treat it right. Maintaining good oral habits such as brushing regularly, flossing, attending checkups and avoiding teeth clenching habits will help significantly. Our team at SDG will recommend proper after-care once you come in for your appointment!

Suspect you have a cavity? Schedule an appointment with us and we’ll evaluate your case!