Dental Filling![]() Tooth Filling ProcedureInspecting the tooth helps our dentist determine the extent of the tooth damage, which will help us know how to approach the filling. Our dentist will use an anesthetic to numb the gums around the affected tooth to ensure you are comfortable and ease pain during the procedure. The dentist drills out the decay within the tooth, replacing it with the filling material. It is a process that takes just a few minutes. During the process of removing the decay, the dentist will clean the area and dry it before filling it. You will be required to bite hard to see if the filling has fit well. Types of Tooth FillingsThere is a wide range of fillings that are available in our office. Silver amalgam, also known as a silver filling, is the most common dental filling. The silver filling is made of mercury and silver alloy and is more durable than any other filling. The World Health Organization recommends silver fillings for their safety and durability. Composite resin filling is a mixture of plastic resin and powder glass. The white-colored filling is used to fill the top and looks exactly like the tooth area it is replacing. In addition, composite resin releases small amounts of fluoride helpful in preventing tooth decay. A gold alloy filling contains a mixture of gold, copper, and other metals. Gold alloy fillings are used for dentures and crowns. They are durable but very expensive and can be sensitive for the teeth. Resin or glass ionomer is most used for primary fillings. However, children also get cavities, and our team recommends resin fillings for children. Porcelain fillings are similar to gold. They are indirect fillings that require more than one visit to our office. However, they are different from gold fillings in that they are more fragile and look more like the original tooth, helping you maintain the previous appearance. Benefits of FillingsIf you and your children are experiencing tooth decay and cavities, most likely, you are in pain. Tooth fillings will help you and your children to reduce pain and discomfort when eating. If you have tooth decay or a cavity, you can visit our office, and with the help of our professionals, we can help repair your tooth with a dental filling. A dental filling helps to avoid more decay and other dental problems such as tooth loss. Fillings are durable and can last for more than 15 years, depending on the material. The filling will keep your teeth protected for a long time. Our specialist at 253 Dental Care can provide you with more information about dental fillings and whether they are right for you. Give us a call at (253) 838-9333 to schedule an appointment to meet our dental professionals. |