It is only natural that you experience both a feeling of curiosity and nervousness when you visit a dentist Oakville, as you are getting your first dental filling. Dental fillings can be discussed as one of the most popular forms of restorative treatment, which is aimed at restoring the lost or damaged teeth and returning their functioning. When you ask yourself what happens with dental fillings in Oakville, then this step-by-step procedure will assist you to know what to anticipate and how to get ready to be accompanied in the procedure.
Understanding Dental Fillings
Dental filling is a dental treatment that restores a tooth that has decay, cracks, or small fractures. The management of it includes extracting the decayed part of the tooth and replacing it with safe and permanent material to avoid further deterioration. Filling materials are of various types, and the most common type of fillings used are composite dental fillings, along with amalgam and porcelain, which are the most common fillings due to their natural look and strength.
Step 1: Dental Examination and Diagnosis
You will start with a comprehensive dental examination. The dentist will inspect your teeth with the help of dental tools and can shoot X-rays to reveal the level of damage. This is done to assist your local dentist near you in ascertaining whether a filling is the most suitable option or you should seek alternative treatment such as a crown.
Step 2: Numbing the Area
A local anesthetic will be given by your dentist before the procedure is carried out to numb the area surrounding the affected tooth. That way, you are guaranteed a pain-free and comfortable procedure. The numbing procedure requires only a couple of minutes, and your dentist will never begin until you are totally relaxed.
Step 3: Removing Tooth Decay
After the dentist has numbed the area, he/she will then excise the decadent or the damaged part of the tooth with a dental drill or laser. It aims at removing all the decay and retaining as much of the healthy tooth structure as possible. A slight pressure or vibration may be experienced during this process, but not pain.
Step 4: Cleaning and Preparing the Tooth
Once the decay is eliminated, the dentist cleans the cavity to the latter to eliminate bacteria and debris. This is necessary to ensure the infection or decay does not recur. In the case of filling the dental cavity filling, the dentist will make sure that the place is totally dry prior to filling.
Step 5: Filling Placement
The dentist will then insert the tooth with a substance that is structurally and color-wise similar to the tooth structure. Composite dental fillings are a preference due to the fact that they have perfect blending with your natural teeth and have hard and durable outcomes. The filling is done in layers, and each of the layers is solidified with the help of a special curing light.
Step 6: Shaping and Polishing the Tooth
After the filling is placed, your dentist then will form the filling so that it fits your bite. To determine alignment, they may have you bite down on carbon paper to make any needed adjustments. Then the tooth is polished to a smooth, natural appearance, regaining its original appearance and feel.
Aftercare Tips
Your mouth may stay numb for a couple of hours after your dental filling appointment. You should refrain from eating until the numb sensation has fully resolved, as you run the risk of accidentally biting your tongue or the inside of your cheeks. You might notice slight sensitivity to extremely hot and cold food and beverages; however, this is temporary.
To help ensure the longevity of your filling:
- Regularly clean your teeth with daily brushing and flossing.
- Ensure not to eat hard substances like ice, pens, dry fruits, hard veggies, and more.
- Develop a habit of visiting the dentist to check fillings regularly.
When to Contact Your Dentist
If you’re having long-term sensitivity, experience pain while chewing, or witness any sign of a crack in your filling, be sure to see your dentist as soon as you can. With early intervention there will be no additional harm, and it will help to keep your mouth healthy.
Conclusion
Your first dental filling appointment will be comfortable and easy simply by having a properly trained and qualified team. At Oakwest Dental, we provide toothbrushes for children and adults and as dentists in Oakville, we use the latest materials and techniques to help fix your smile accurately, affordably, and safely. Our Oakville dentist can help you with a simple tooth filling or explore composite dental fillings to take care of your mouth and oral health.
Book your appointment with the dentist at Oakwest Dental now to have your confident smile back!