drtopping@drtopping.com
Fillings
What are Dental Fillings?
A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape. If you have a tooth that requires a filling, the dentist will first remove the decayed tooth material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cleaned out cavity with a filling material. A filling also helps prevent further decay by closing off any cracks or spaces where bacteria can enter.
To help your filling blend into your teeth, we use composite (plastic) resin that is custom made to the exact color of your natural teeth, creating a more natural appearance. This way, it doesn’t matter where we have to do the filling – it’s sure to match!
The 5-Step Process to Dental Fillings
We want you to be 100% comfortable when it’s time to get your fillings done at any of our Topping Dental Group locations. Here’s what you can expect when it’s time to get a filling:
Numbing the tooth and surrounding areas to maximum comfort
Removing the decay and infection by drilling
Preparing the tooth to receive the filling
Putting in the color-matched resin to fill in the hole and prevent future damage to the tooth
Check your dental bite to make sure that the filling is correct and natural to your bite
Frequently Asked Questions About Fillings
What is the blue light my dentist uses when I get fillings?
The blue light is called a “curing light.” This light actually hardens the resin to create a perfectly sealed finish.
Does it hurt to get fillings?
We do our best to make sure that your mouth is perfectly numb before you get your filling. If you feel like you need more numbing solution, simply tell the dentist! Our goal is to make sure that you are 100% comfortable the entire time.
How long do fillings take?
As a rule of thumb, we say 20 minutes to an hour based on how many cavities need to be filled, what type of filling you need, and the location of the filling. Before you schedule your filling, the dentist will give you a better time frame of what to expect when you come back for your tooth filling.
When can I eat or drink after I get a filling?
You can eat and drink almost immediately after! The blue light instantly cures your filling so you can get right back to your normal life. Granted, the numbing takes about 1 – 3 hours to wear off. We just encourage you to not eat anything hard or sticky to be safe.
Is it safe to get a filling if I’m pregnant?
The ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologist) have reported that both dental fillings and root canal procedures are safe to have while being pregnant because the anesthetic is local to only the mouth.
If my young child has a cavity, should they get a filling?
Because every cavity is different, it’s up to the doctor to decide on the best course of action. This is why it is best practice to choose a family dentist that you trust. You can read more about establishing a family dentist for your family by clicking the link.
Learn More about Establishing a Family Dentist
Where Would You Like To Schedule a Filling?
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Contact Us today!
Topping Dental Group is here to assist each and every patient with the very best dental care. Our office has a small town, neighborly atmosphere that will immediately put you at ease.
