A filling is a type of restoration used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, or minor tooth damage. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth is removed and then the tooth is filled. 

Dental fillings are a quick and simple way to restore damaged teeth back to their function and appearance. Typically, if a cavity is caught early enough, a filling will be enough to repair the tooth and stop the spread of decay. 

How Is a Dental Filling Placed?

During your appointment with our dentist in Greenbelt, MD, we will first numb your mouth and then clean the decayed area before placing and hardening the filling material. We usually use composite resin as the filling material because it is durable, aesthetically pleasing, and can be matched to the natural shade of your teeth for a seamless restoration. 

Fillings are permanently bonded to the natural tooth structure with dental adhesive. Using fillings, our dentist in Greenbelt, MD, can restore your tooth in a single visit with minimal post-procedure sensitivity.

What Happens After the Dental Filling Procedure?

After your procedure, you may feel some discomfort or sensitivity in the affected area. Our dentist in Greenbelt, MD, may recommend an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen to reduce discomfort, as well as a cold compress to alleviate any swelling. 

It’s normal to feel some pressure in the tooth for a few days after fillings or other restorations are placed. If sensitivity continues for more than a couple of days, it may be an indication of an infection and requires immediate treatment from the dentist.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Fillings?

There are many advantages to getting a tooth filled, including preventing further damage from cavities or decay, restoring chewing and speaking function, and improving the appearance of your teeth. 

When you have a tooth with a cavity, bacteria will enter the tooth and cause more damage over time. These bacteria can eat away at the tooth, causing it to weaken and eventually crack. A filling protects the tooth and prevents further decay from setting in.

A filling also restores your tooth’s strength. When you bite down, your filling absorbs some of the force from your bite and protects the tooth from breaking as a result of overexertion. 

Additionally, a filling restores the appearance of the affected tooth by covering it. If you have a cracked or chipped front tooth, for example, a filling can instantly improve the appearance of your smile so that you feel more confident about showing it to others.

Lastly, getting a filling is an affordable option compared to the alternative of getting a dental crown or a dental implant. The composite material fillings are made from looks just like the natural shade of your tooth and is also extremely durable, so you won’t have to worry about needing a replacement for several years.

Want to learn more about our dental procedures? Call us at (301) 321-9966 or visit our dental office located at 7501 Greenway Center Dr Suite 260, Greenbelt, MD 20770.