A cavity forms when tooth enamel is weakened or destroyed. This causes a small hole in the tooth. People with cavities sometimes don’t notice them, but cavities should be treated as soon as possible. A cavity is permanent and needs to be filled quickly to avoid further decay. We do not recommend waiting for more than a month to fill a cavity.
Filling a cavity between teeth is common, and your dentist will provide guidelines for brushing and flossing after your cavity is filled. Filling a cavity in your smile should be taken care of as soon as possible. Filling a tooth cavity usually takes only a few minutes and is a common procedure. After numbing the mouth, the dentist will fill the cavity by removing decay from the tooth and applying a bonded filling.
Options for Getting a Cavity Filled
Dentists remove the decay in order to save the tooth. The problem is this process leaves a hole in your tooth where the cavity used to be. The solution? For centuries, dentists have been filling in the holes with fillings of some variety. Over time, the technique has improved. For one thing, now dentists will numb your mouth before the procedure to ensure you don’t feel anything. Interestingly, the entire process of getting a cavity filled usually doesn’t last more than a few minutes.
Just as the technique dentists use has evolved and improved over the years, so too has the variety of fillings available. Each filling has pros and cons, depending on your price range and your needs. The different kinds of fillings are:
- Silver and gold fillings
- Resin composite fillings
- Porcelain/ceramic fillings
- Glass ionomer fillings
Over time, all fillings will likely need to be replaced, but some will require adjustment sooner rather than later. Gold and silver fillings are the most durable variety, but many people dislike the way they look in their mouths – especially if they have the fillings in a visible spot. Gold fillings are also very expensive.
On the opposite end, resin composite fillings are less noticeable because they’re the color of your teeth. But if your priority is appearances, porcelain/ceramic fillings may be the best bet. Like composite fillings, they’re tooth-colored, but they’re less likely to stain. They’re also much more expensive than composites. Finally, glass ionomer fillings are the least durable option. However, the benefit to these fillings is that they actually release fluoride, strengthening your teeth over time.
How Do I Avoid Needing a Cavity Filled?
The good news is that you can decrease the chances of getting future cavities or needing dental fillings by brushing your teeth, flossing, and making regular check-ups to see your dentist. You’ll also prevent a whole slew of other dental problems down the road, like plaque build-up, receding gums, and other costly and difficult issues requiring restorative dentistry.
We also want to mention sealants, which work to prevent cavities before they form. They do this by filling in the ridges and grooves on the outside of the tooth, where bacteria and plaque like to form. Sealants are a great choice for those interested in cavity preventative care beyond brushing and flossing.
Get Cavity Fillings at Splendid Dental Atascocita
Dental fillings and other restorative dentistry options keep your teeth healthy and looking great. Whether you have cavities that need to be taken care of now, or you’re looking to prevent needing cavity fillings down the road, look no further than Splendid Dental Atascocita. Our friendly and professional staff will help you create an appointment with a member of our dental team. For a brighter, bolder smile, call Splendid Dental Atascocita at 713-244-7790 today.