Dental Fillings and Sealants
Getting fillings and sealants can restore teeth and prevent decay from worsening. Tooth decay and cavities are common dental problems we can help prevent.
Dental Fillings and Sealants in Prosper, TX
Our dental office offers two treatments designed to safeguard and restore your teeth: dental fillings and sealants.
Dental fillings are commonly used to repair teeth that have been damaged due to decay or cavities. During the procedure, Dr. Ross will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then fill the cavity with a special material, such as composite resin, that matches the natural color of your teeth. This resin will restore the tooth’s original shape and function, preventing further damage or decay.
Dental sealants, on the other hand, are a preventative measure that can help protect your teeth from decay. They are a thin, protective coating applied to molars chewing surfaces, which are often difficult to reach and clean properly. The sealant acts as a barrier against harmful bacteria and food particles that can cause decay and help prevent cavities’ formation. Dr. Ross will carefully apply the sealant to the tooth, ensuring it is properly sealed and protected.
At our dental office, prevention is key to maintaining good oral health. That’s why we offer a range of preventive and restorative dental treatments to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you need a dental filling or a sealant, our team is here to provide the best possible care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
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How do dental fillings for cavities work?
Cavity and tooth fillings are required when decay leaves holes in teeth. Left unchecked, the decay will continue to spread and damage the tooth’s hard material and, eventually, the inner pulp and root system. During the filling procedure, dentists clean away decay inside the cavity with a drill. However, because this doesn’t fix the damage that is already there, a filling is necessary. The filling intends to replace the part of the tooth that was destroyed by tooth decay. Your dentist will mold the filling to fit the shape of the existing tooth to restore its structural integrity and protect the softer enamel exposed by decay.
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What types of fillings are there?
There are several types of materials used for teeth fillings, including gold, porcelain, silver amalgam (an alloy consisting of mercury mixed with silver, tin, zinc, and copper), tooth-colored plastic, composite resin, and glass ionomer. The material used depends on your dentist, the extent and location of tooth decay, and insurance coverage.
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Is tooth sensitivity after a filling normal?
When you get a filling, the area around the infected tooth is numbed. You shouldn’t feel anything for an hour or two after your appointment, but once the numbing wears off, it’s normal to feel pain in your teeth and gums.
It’s common to experience pain when drinking or eating anything hot or cold. It is also not uncommon to feel pain or greater than usual sensitivity when you brush or floss near the infected tooth.
Minimize Tooth Sensitivity
You can reduce the sensitivity in your teeth and gums by:
- Taking an anti-inflammatory drug that contains ibuprofen
- Rinse your mouth with 1/2 to 3/4 tsp of salt mixed with warm water. This can reduce inflammation
- Temporarily avoiding hot, cold, or acidic foods and drinks
- Brush and floss gently
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive
More Questions?
If you have more questions about fillings and sealants or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office, and we will be happy to discuss further.
