Fillings are one of the most common — and most important — dental procedures. Here's what they are and why timely treatment matters.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Fillings are materials that restore the function of damaged or decayed teeth. Common types include amalgam (a durable silver-colored mix), composite (resin that matches your natural teeth), gold alloy (expensive but very sturdy), and ceramic (natural-looking and stain-resistant).
Why Fillings Are Essential
A filling seals off the opening left by decay, preventing bacteria from entering and the cavity from growing. Many modern fillings look just like natural teeth, and they restore normal chewing and speaking. Treating decay early with a filling helps you avoid more involved treatments like crowns or root canals down the road.
How You Get a Filling
Your dentist checks the severity of the decay, numbs the area, removes the decayed portion, places and shapes the filling to match your tooth, and polishes it for a natural finish and proper bite. Some temporary sensitivity to hot and cold afterward is normal and usually fades within a few days.
Why Choose a Qualified Dentist
An experienced dentist can determine whether a filling is the right call, help you choose the best material, and ensure proper technique so the filling lasts.
Have a question about your smile?
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