A dental issue like a cavity may feel a bit nerve-wracking to some people. Part of the reason is that they don't really know what to expect and what the treatment process entails. If you have a cavity and your dentists told you that you need dental fillings, then most probably the following steps will take place:
The dentist will apply a numbing gel to the affected tooth and then an anesthetic so that you don't feel any pain during the procedure.
Using a drill or other equipment, the dentist will remove the affected area of the tooth.
Your dentist will clean the affected tooth thoroughly to make sure that no bacteria or debris remains.
After the doctor has finished cleaning the tooth, he will proceed to actually fill the gap with a dental filling. The type of filling used largely depends on the location of the tooth and its function.
After the filling is complete, the dentist will polish the filling so that it fits your bite perfectly and does not cause any discomfort.
The lifespan of fillings depends very much on the material from which they are made.
Gold fillings have the longest lifespan, from 15 to 30 years, silver fillings last between 10 and 15 years, and composite resin fillings between 5 and 7 years.
Of course, the best way to prolong the lifespan of your fillings is to visit your dentist regularly for preventive care.
Occasionally, yes. The fillings are not made to last forever, and over time problems may occur with their structure. That's when you will need to replace them. However, if you take good care of them, the fillings can last for many years between replacements.
Your smile has a great impact on your confidence, so naturally, you want to get the best care you can get. At Mary Qian Dental Group, we are dedicated to ensuring people in Palo Alto get truly excellent dental care targeted at their unique needs.
If you want to learn more about our services or book your appointment, don't hesitate to contact us.