What happens during a dental filling procedure?

Dental fillings are common dental procedures aimed at restoring teeth affected by decay. Decay, often caused by plaque buildup, can weaken the tooth structure and lead to cavities if left untreated. By undergoing a dental filling procedure, patients can safeguard their natural teeth and avoid the need for more extensive treatments, including root canals or extractions. Maintaining good oral health with the help of regular dental check-ups is essential to catch and treat cavities early.

Preparation for the Procedure

Preparing for a cavity filling near you is straightforward. First, the dentist conducts a thorough oral examination to assess your dental health before proceeding. This evaluation helps determine your specific requirements. We outline the steps involved in this pre-procedure assessment, which includes evaluating the extent of dental damage and determining the most suitable filling materials. Your dentist will explain each step to ensure you fully understand and feel comfortable with the procedure.

Sometimes, a temporary dental filling may be necessary to smooth out any rough edges in the cavity. This temporary filling will be replaced during the actual dental filling procedure.

Administration of Anesthesia

The first and most important step in the dental filling procedure is ensuring your comfort. Dental work can be unsettling for many people, but it doesn’t have to be! To minimize any discomfort, we use a two-part approach.

1. Pre-numbing Gel: Before administering the local anesthetic injection, we often apply a pre-numbing gel to the injection site. It helps numb the area beforehand, making the injection much more comfortable. Depending on the situation, we may skip the gel and proceed directly to the injection.
2. Local Anesthetic Injection: Your dentist uses a syringe to inject a local anesthetic, which effectively numbs the tooth and surrounding area. Common anesthetic options include Lidocaine, Mepivacaine, Septocaine, and Buprenorphine. The anesthesia typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes to take effect. Once numb, you’ll experience minimal discomfort, allowing us to proceed smoothly.

Removal of Decay

Once the area is numb and the patient is comfortable, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth utilizing specialized dental tools. These tools are designed to efficiently and very effectively remove decay while preserving as much of the healthy tooth structure as possible. Ensuring all decay is removed is crucial to prevent further damage to the tooth.

Filling Material Selection

Dental fillings are available in various materials, each offering unique characteristics and benefits:

• Amalgam Fillings: Often called silver fillings, these are durable and time-tested. They are made by combining mercury with metals like silver, tin, and copper. Amalgam fillings are best for molars and heavily used teeth but require specific tooth preparation, sometimes involving removing additional tooth material.
• Composite Fillings: These are popular for their natural appearance. Composites are made of a blend of plastic resin and finely ground glass particles, matching the color of your natural teeth. They are versatile and don’t require specific cavity shapes, making them suitable for various dental applications.
• Gold and Porcelain Fillings: Gold fillings are extremely durable but can be more costly. Porcelain fillings are customized in a dental lab based on an impression of your tooth. They are bonded to the cavity with dental cement and are known for their strength and natural look.
• Glass Ionomer Fillings: Available in different mixes and consistencies, these fillings are versatile and durable. Thicker formulations are recommended for tooth fillings to ensure longevity, making them suitable for various dental needs.

Placement of the Filling

Once the appropriate filling material is chosen, the next step is to place it inside the prepared tooth cavity. The technique used depends on the type of material selected.

For amalgam and some composite fillings, the dentist layers the material systematically. This method ensures that the filling is compact and secure, without gaps or areas that are not properly filled. It’s crucial to avoid overfilling, which can lead to gaps in the restoration.

Recent advancements in composite materials have introduced ‘bulk fill’ composites, eliminating the need for layering. These composites can be applied in a single, substantial layer, making the filling process faster and more efficient.

Allowing the Filling to Set

The setting process varies depending on the filling material used:

• Amalgam Fillings: These typically set on their own within a few minutes. If the dentist works too slowly, the material may start to set up while packing it into the cavity.
• Composite Fillings: To harden composite fillings, they require curing with an LED curing light. This light emits a specific wavelength that initiates the hardening process. Composite resin can also be set with visible daylight, but this process takes longer. It’s crucial to cover composite resin during setting to prevent premature hardening.

Adjustments and Bite Alignment

Once the filling material has fully hardened, adjustments are made to ensure proper bite alignment. This step is essential to prevent discomfort during chewing or biting:

• Using Articulating Paper: Your dentist will use articulating paper (blue paper) to identify high spots or areas causing discomfort when you bite down. These spots are carefully adjusted until your bite feels normal and even.

Polishing and Finishing

The final step in the dental filling procedure is polishing the restoration to achieve a smooth and glossy appearance:

• Specialized Polishers: Dentists use specialized polishers to make the filling look and feel glossy. This quick and painless process leaves you with a beautifully restored tooth.

Conclusion

Dental fillings in South Hadley, MA, are essential for treating cavities and preserving the health of your natural teeth. Patients can restore their smile and prevent further decay by undergoing a dental filling procedure at South Hadley Dental Group. Regular dental check-ups and optimal oral hygiene are key to optimal oral health and preventing future dental issues.