subject: Getting A Filling With Your Dentist [print this page] Going to the dentist every six months is just the start to keeping your smile healthy. Films of your teeth, a cleaning, flossing, and even an oral cancer check keep your smile looking nice. More important is catching cavities and other oral diseases like gingivitis before they are out of control. If you need a filling what can you expect?
There are options when considering this procedure. An amalgam filling contains mercury and is, therefore, getting some controversial press. This type is still allowed and its durability is often cited. You can also choose a resin composite filling. This type is newer and contains more plastics. Critics point out that it lasts only half as long as an amalgam filling. Another benefit is that this type of material is white. You may want to discuss with your dentist which option is best for you.
When you show up for your appointment you will likely take a seat while your films are reviewed. After checking the tooth for further decay, they will start the numbing process. If your cavity is not that big it may not be necessary to numb you. You will have a numbing agent rubbed on the area. You will wait a few minutes for the numbing agent to begin its work. Then, the injection is given in the area. Some people say this didn't even hurt.
The next step will be setting up a rubber dam. This allows separation of the area they are working on. Another option may be a bite block. This block allows you to rest your jaw muscles on the block while keeping your mouth open. You may not need one of these if your previous procedure material is in just the right places. Once you're all set up the drilling process and decay removal begin.
If you are getting an amalgam filling the metals will be mixed up. Then, they will place them in the hole to fill it. Once it's in there the substance will be pushed down to be sure it's fitting all the space. The overflow will be carved away so that it looks like it's just resting there in the tooth.
If you are getting a composite filling they will put a bit of blue acid where the filling will go to form little holes for bonding the material. They will rinse the acid away and then apply a bonding agent. At this point the material will be applied. It will be cured with a blue light that hardens it and makes it strong. You will bite down on the carbon paper and filing down will finish the filling.
Now that you have a general idea of getting a filling getting it done won't be so scary. Your dentist will help you relax and make the choice about which filling to use. You will be on your way to a healthy and nice looking smile.
