A dental filling is a restorative dental treatment that is used to fill in areas of your tooth that have been affected by decay or damage. At our office, we only use tooth-colored composite resin for all of our restorations. These fillings are strong and durable and can help to restore a tooth back to its normal function.
After your treatment, the filling will help to protect your teeth from further damage and will restore your overall oral health. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need more than one treatment to fully restore your teeth.
When Are Dental Fillings Recommended?
The dentist in San Mateo may recommend getting a filling to replace the lost tooth structure for several reasons, depending on the extent of the damage. If the cavity is very small or only affects a small area of the tooth’s biting surface, your dentist may be able to repair it using filling material. Cavities that affect the enamel layer but not the tooth’s inner dentin may require only a filling. However, if the cavity extends to the dentin layer, you will likely need a dental crown because the damaged area is too large to be repaired with a filling.
Bacteria thrive on sugar, and when you eat sugary foods, they help fuel the bacteria in your mouth that cause tooth decay. Many people enjoy eating sweets and other foods that are high in carbohydrates, but if this habit regularly leads to cavities, you should cut down on these foods or cut them out completely. The San Mateo dentist can help you develop a healthier diet that promotes better oral health.
How Are Dental Fillings Performed?
Before your dental filling procedure, the dentist in San Mateo will first remove any decay from your tooth. Once all signs of tooth decay are gone, they will apply a local anesthetic to the affected area to keep you comfortable during the appointment. Then, they will place the filling material in your tooth and will use a special light to harden it into place. Once the tooth is filled, the dentist will finish by polishing the surface to help it blend in with your other teeth.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Fillings?
- Restore tooth function
- Stop tooth decay
- Protect your tooth from fracture or breakage
- Support your oral health and hygiene
- Help prevent further decay
- Save money on dental procedures (like root canals or tooth extractions) later on down the road
By choosing to have a dental filling, you’re actually saving money in the long run by avoiding more costly procedures. Plus, you can maintain better oral health and avoid additional problems and discomfort in the future.
To learn more about our dental services, book an appointment with our dentist in San Mateo, CA, by calling us at (650) 342-9055. You can also visit us at 255 N San Mateo Dr Suite 3, San Mateo, CA 94401. We will be happy to answer any questions you have.
