Dental Filling Framingham MA

Dental Filling | You likely have had cavities at some point in your life. Cavities are caused by tooth decay, which is the result of poor oral health. To restore your tooth, your dentist will likely recommend a dental filling. Dental fillings once came in just one material: amalgam, or silver. Nowadays, you can opt for tooth-colored fillings so you can discreetly fill in your cavity without showing it off to the world when you smile. Most dental offices, including ours, now use this cosmetic dental filling exclusively. Because amalgam can sometimes darken over time, we recommend a tooth-colored filling. Learn more about cosmetic dental fillings.

Dental Filling Process

During the process of filling your tooth, the dentist will first remove the decay inside the tooth. He or she will then thoroughly clean the area. If decay is found near the root, your dentist may add a liner to protect the nerve. Next, he or she will add the filling. For tooth-colored fillings, the material is applied in layers. A special light is used to harden each layer. The material is then shaped, trimmed and polished. This filling closes up the hole left behind by the decay. By closing up the hole, bacteria cannot enter the tooth and cause further damage. Your tooth will likely be numbed during this procedure, so you likely will not feel anything while the tooth is getting filled. However, you could experience some tooth sensitivity for a few hours after the procedure, once the anesthesia wears off.

Cosmetic Dental Filling

A cosmetic dental filling restores the tooth and fills up the cavity using composite-resin material. Composite-resin is tooth-colored and has a natural appearance. The material is applied directly onto the cavity to seal the tooth. Once hardened, the tooth is fully restored and the filling is unnoticeable. Patients prefer this type of filling, since other fillings like amalgam darken with time. Plus, they tend to look unnatural, which can be embarrassing. A cosmetic dental filling increases confidence in patients. If you currently have amalgam fillings in your mouth, you can cover them with composite-resin material. Call our office to schedule an appointment.

Dental Filling Maintenance

Taking care of a tooth with a filling is easy. Maintain proper dental hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. This will help prevent new cavities from forming and keep your smile healthy and beautiful. The filling may chip easily, so avoid candy and other hard foods. Contact our office if you experience tooth sensitivity or discomfort.

Learn More Today

If you have cavities, dental fillings can keep bacteria from entering the tooth, keeping your mouth healthy. Our highly trained dentists can assess your smile and help you understand the best treatment options to improve your oral health. Contact us today to learn about cosmetic dental fillings. We can help you cover up existing amalgam fillings with cosmetic fillings as well. We accept most insurances and welcome new patients. Schedule a consultation by calling (508) 620-1170 or booking online.