Tooth Filling
TOOTH FILLING IN SARASOTA, FL
Cavities occur due to a collection of bacteria-laden plaque on a concentrated area of a tooth. These bacteria erode the hard enamel of the tooth and eventually, a hole starts to develop. A tooth filling could be the dental treatment that prevents the tooth from deteriorating further and helps you avoid needing an extraction. At the office of Dr. Kenneth Schweizer and Dr. Jillian Porto, we can help you obtain the fillings you need to protect your oral health.
WHY CAVITIES SHOULD NOT BE IGNORED
Cavities can be small when they first develop, but not getting the cavity filled immediately can lead to further deterioration. Once the enamel of the tooth has been penetrated due to decay, the rest of the tooth is even more vulnerable to decay. Tooth decay is one of the most common reasons people have to get a tooth extraction. In addition, a cavity can be so bad that it opens up your tooth to harmful bacteria that can lead to an infection, which can be both painful and dangerous.
HOW THE TOOTH FILLING PROCESS GENERALLY WORKS
Each patient’s tooth filling procedure can be unique. However, the process tends to look similar:
- A local anesthetic is injected into specific points of the mouth to numb the area
- The dentist uses a thin drill to drill away the affected decaying tooth material
- A cleaning solution is used to wash away any debris and remaining residue or bacteria
- The chosen filling material is injected into the drilled opening
- The dentist uses a tiny tool to shape the surface of the filling
COMMON FAQS ABOUT TOOTH FILLINGS IN SARASOTA, FL
As noted, before the dentist begins doing work on a tooth that needs a filling, they will inject a local anesthetic. Therefore, you shouldn’t feel anything as the dentist works. You may have some slight sensitivity after the numbing medication wears off, but no pain.
One reason dental fillings are a preferred method of fixing a cavity is the treatment has the potential to last many years. With the proper care, the area around the filling will not further deteriorate because the filling acts as a sort of sealant in the area to keep bacteria away.
In the event you lose a filling, it is important to get to a dentist as quickly as possible to have the filling replaced. Leaving the area open can mean the tooth is vulnerable to collecting bacteria. In addition, you may experience sensitivity or pain if the opening is deep into the tooth.
