One of the most common dental procedures today is getting a dental filling. Dental fillings repair damaged and decayed teeth, restore oral health and maintain the structure of the natural tooth.
Dr. Freano provides many types of dental fillings in his Lexington KY dental office. We even use dental fillings in cosmetic dentistry. By replacing old and dark fillings, you can improve both oral health and the look of your smile. Dental fillings come in many forms. The material your dentist will recommend will depend on the location of the tooth and harshness of the cavity.
Dental Fillings Procedure in Lexington, KY
Your dentist will begin by cleaning and preparing the affected tooth, and remove any old fillings. Depending on the severity of the cavity or damage, he may apply a local anesthetic to ensure the patient’s comfort during treatment.
After placing the filling material into the affected area, the dentist will cure it with a special light. Then, he will proceed to adjust it for a comfortable fit, then polish it.
A dentist can place a resin tooth filling during a single visit. However, gold and porcelain fillings will require two visits because a dental lab must make them.
Thwart Cavities to Avoid Getting a Filling
Cavities may be lurking around the corner if you don’t properly care for your smile. Finding ways to practice proper oral hygiene is key to the success of keeping optimal oral health. Dr. Freano believes patient education and preventive dentistry are two of the greatest tools to help patients achieve great oral health.
During a visit to our Lexington, KY dental office, Dr. Freano will inform you about treatments, provide tailored dental care, and address your dental concerns in a timely manner.
Preventing cavities relies heavily on your oral hygiene routine. Finding the right routine for your smile should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day, using a fluoride mouthwash, and drinking the right amount of water for your body.
Dental Fillings FAQs
What Are Cavities?
When sugars and starches mix with bacteria from plaque, it creates an acid that breaks down the tooth enamel over time. Tooth decay will set in, and if your teeth are not treated, a cavity will form. Dr. Freano offers a range of restorative, general, and cosmetic dentistry procedures for patients with cavities. Depending on your needs, Dr. Freano may provide a dental filling, root canal, and dental cleanings.
Does getting a dental filling hurt?
No. getting a dental filling is a very common and quick procedure. Your tooth pain from the infection will almost instantly go away after getting a dental filling. We use local anesthesia to make sure you are comfortable throughout the process. A dentist can complete this procedure in a single visit.
Can you replace old fillings?
Yes. Our dentist can replace old dark fillings with white fillings to enhance your smile and improve your dental health. Over time, old fillings can degrade and leak, allowing additional decay and damage to occur. Dr. Freano will check your dental fillings and advise if you need to replace them. We offer high-quality dental implants to replace teeth that are beyond saving.
How long do tooth fillings last?
You can expect your filling to last anywhere between 10 to 15 years with proper oral hygiene and if the affected tooth does not have any other issues.
Will a dental filling make my tooth sensitive?
After getting a dental filling, you might notice temporary tooth sensitivity. Having tooth sensitivity after a filling is natural and should go away in a couple of days. If it doesn’t in a week or two, then contact your dentist for further advice. It may mean that your filling does not properly fit.
Schedule A Visit To Our Lexington, KY Dentist Office
If you haven’t scheduled a dental exam yet, visit to our Lexington, KY dental office. Now is the best time! Dr. Freano offers complete, comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages. Dr. Freano will determine which dental care solution is best for your dental issues. Call our office to make an appointment or schedule an appointment online.