Restorative dentistry focuses on fixing damaged, decayed, cracked, and unhealthy teeth. One of the most common restorations is a dental filling. You are likely to know at least a few people who have fillings. Fillings are used for cavities, and if you are meeting your dentist in Cotswold, Charlotte, NC, for an appointment, here’s what you need to know. 

Types of fillings

Dental fillings can be classified into two categories. The first one is a direct dental filling, which doesn’t need to be made in a lab. For a long time, amalgam fillings have been the most common, and the material is a mix of mercury, silver, zinc, and copper. Today, most fillings are made of resin composite material because of their tooth-colored appearance. Your dentist may also consider glass ionomer fillings, which also resemble natural tooth enamel. The second type is indirect fillings, and the best examples of that would be onlays and inlays. Usually, indirect fillings are made in a lab, and the treatment requires two visits. Onlays and inlays are mostly used for more damaged teeth. 

What does it feel like to get a dental filling?

Getting a filling is a rather simple procedure. Your dentist will first administer local anesthesia to numb the gums and the affected tooth. Next, they will use special instruments to clean the tooth and remove decay. They will finally fill the hole with the filling material. If resin composite material is used, a special dental curing light will be used to harden the material. As the final step, they will check your bite and smoothen out any rough edges. Patients with dental anxiety can consider sedation, although this is rarely required for something as straightforward as a dental filling. 

“Are dental fillings right for me?”

 Most patients who have cavities benefit from dental fillings. Both direct and indirect fillings help strengthen decayed and weak teeth. A filling also saves an affected tooth and restores chewing function and appearance. Most dental fillings are designed to last for as long as 20 years. If a tooth is extremely weak or cannot be repaired with inlays and onlays, the dentist may recommend getting a crown. 

Are there any complications?

Patients usually don’t experience any issues after a dental filling. You may experience some soreness in gums and teeth sensitivity, but these minor side effects should subside in a week. Call your dentist if you have severe pain in a tooth, which may indicate an infection of the pulp. If you experience pain while biting down, you should visit the clinic to have the filling reshaped as required. There is also no downtime with a dental filling procedure, and unless you were sedated, you can go home immediately. Your dentist may recommend pain relievers to minimize discomfort. It is best to wait for your next meal until the anesthesia effects wear off. 

Other things to know 

If you are new to getting a dental filling, ask your dentist about the filling material, whether there are alternatives, and how you can care for your teeth better. While cavities can be treated, prevention is always better, and your dentist can advise you accordingly on oral hygiene habits. Regular dental exams, cleanings, and imaging can help prevent many issues affecting teeth and gums, including decay and gum disease. While dental fillings are designed to last, check if there are any changes in the appearance of an existing filling from time to time. 

Most dental clinics in Cotswold offer dental fillings as a part of restorative care. You can sort between different practices and dentists through research, recommendations, and online reviews.