Many individuals dread the idea of needing restorative dental treatment. If you have cavities or other oral health problems, they will necessitate additional treatment. Don’t dread additional treatment like dental fillings, because dental fillings will help your teeth get back to their best. Plus, putting off dental fillings will only lead to more extensive oral health needs. Tooth decay is a progressive condition, so the longer you wait to treat it, the more extensive the damage will be. If your dentist finds a cavity, have it filled as soon as possible for the best prognosis.
Dental Fillings Are a Relatively Minor Restorative Treatment
In terms of restorative dentistry treatments, dental fillings are on the minor end. A dental filling is used to restore the dental enamel that has been damaged by the activity of bacteria. When bacteria accumulate on your teeth, they start to wear down your enamel with the acid they produce. Eventually, that acid creates a hole. The hole is known as a cavity. It’s important to have your cavity cleaned and filled so that the infection doesn’t spread any deeper into the tooth. Dental fillings can typically be completed with just a little local anesthetic and a short treatment time. Very minor fillings may not even require a numbing agent.
Dental Fillings Are Not a Loss
You may feel discouraged if your dentist finds cavities on your teeth. Don’t let it get you down. Take the opportunity to evaluate your home care routine. Are you actually brushing twice per day? Are you flossing daily? Staying consistent with your home care can go a long way toward preventing cavities. Are you constantly getting cavities in the same areas of your mouth? This may serve as an indicator that you’re not cleaning certain areas as thoroughly as the rest. If you need up needing a dental filling don’t take it as a loss, be glad you caught the problem before it got worse!
Dental Fillings Eventually Wear Out Over Time
Dental fillings are just like any other material. Eventually, your dental filling will wear out, and it may even fall out. After seven to ten years, it’s likely that you’ll need to have your filling replaced. That’s okay. Fillings perform a vital function, and you should replace them when necessary. If your dental filling wears down, it can create little seams that allow bacteria to get beneath it and build up inside your tooth again. That’s why you should examine your own dental fillings every couple of months for potential wear.
Choose a Filling at Stubbs Family Dentistry
Receiving a dental filling is a minor procedure that doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. At Stubbs Family Dentistry, we create a soothing environment that encourages patients to receive the oral healthcare that they need. Schedule an appointment for restorative dentistry at Stubbs Family Dentistry in West Allis, WI by calling 414-541-8250.
