When I had a badly decayed tooth extracted, I got a partial denture to fill in the gap. I didn't mind it at first, because I was just so happy to have my painful tooth out of my mouth. Over time, I began to get tired of taking it out at night. I asked my dentist if I was could get a dental implant, and he said that my gum disease did not make me a good candidate, but a fixed bridge may be a good option for me. I went with his suggestion, and I have no regrets. I love feeling like I have a real tooth again that I don't have to remove at night. I created this blog to remind other people with a missing tooth that they have many replacement options, and if one is not for you, then try another that may be right.
If you have a cavity, then the recommended form of treatment will be a filling. The process for having a filling put in is a fairly simple one. This article will educate you on the process for getting a dental filling so you are better prepared when you go in for yours.
When a filling can and cannot be used
A filling is the preferred course of treatment for cavities. However, in order for a filling to be used, the tooth has to still be in healthy shape and it has to be able to hold the filling in place. If too much of the tooth is affected by the cavity, then you may require a more invasive course of treatment, such as a root canal or a complete tooth extraction.
How the filling is put in
When you go in for your exam, the dentist will take a look at your teeth and give you x-rays. They will determine whether or not a filling can be used to fix the tooth. If it can, then the dentist will numb the area.
They will remove portions of the tooth that are decayed. If the cavity is deep or it is between your teeth where it is hard to get at, then they may use a drill to drill out the area. Also, in the case of a deep cavity, your dentist may put a liner in place to protect the nerve of the tooth if it's necessary. The dentist will then put the filling in and finish up by cleaning and polishing your teeth.
What to expect after the filling is put in
Getting a filling put in isn't considered to be a painful procedure, but you may feel some discomfort after you have it put in. The discomfort is generally mild and is caused by having your mouth held wide open for the duration of the procedure and from the grinding the tooth may have endured.
If you had a deep cavity and the dentist had to drill near the nerve, then you can expect to experience more pain. In this case, you should take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help with the pain and you can hold a cold compress against your cheek to help.
It is also normal for your tooth to be sensitive for a while after having a cavity filled. This means you should avoid eating or drinking hot or cold things. If the sensitivity of the tooth seems to linger for more than a couple of weeks, then it's a good idea to go back in to have the dentist check the filling.
If you think your filling may have fallen out, then it's important for you to get back in to see the dentist as soon as possible so you can have it replaced before more damage is done. Seek out the best dentist in your area for more information.
Share2 January 2016
