If a tooth has become decayed, chipped or cracked, a filling can be used to restore some of its strength. Fillings can be made from a range of different materials. The filling material can be chosen according to a customer’s requirements, such as being aesthetically identical to a natural tooth. My Dentist Friend offers fillings in a range of different types to remove damage and decay from an oral cavity and improve your overall dental health.

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What Is the Procedure for Having a Filling Placed?

An initial consultation appointment allows the patient and our Dentists to discuss the treatment. The patient will decide what type of filling they want, then schedule a date for its placement. Placing a filling is a routine procedure and can be done in 20 to 60 minutes. During the procedure, the patient will be under local anesthesia to numb the tooth and the surrounding tissue. The dentist will remove the decayed areas of the tooth and thoroughly clean it to prevent bacteria from being stuck under the filling. The filling will then be placed in the filed area. There will be aftercare instructions to which the patient must adhere, as the surgery site will be sensitive. Note that the patient will still be under the influence of the local anesthesia.

What Are the Different Types of Fillings?

The most common type of filling is an amalgam filling, which is made up of a selection of different metals, making the filling cheaper but stronger. Amalgam fillings are more conspicuous compared to other fillings, as they are usually reflective silver color, which makes them good for teeth at the back of the mouth. They usually last 10 to 15 years, but they can last longer with the excellent upkeep of the patient’s oral health. Inlays & onlays are a special type of filling that can deal with more significant damage to the biting surface of a tooth. They are usually made of porcelain, and are practically undetectable from the rest of the tooth it is placed on. They can last up to 30 years.

Composite fillings are made from plastic resins that are also effective at blending in with the rest of the oral cavity. They can be matched to the color of the patient’s teeth. They can stain over time however, and usually last 5 to 7 years.

Avoiding Fillings

We are happy to accommodate any fillings that a patient may need, whether it be from an injury they received, or from neglect to their oral health. However, for the future, we can advise our patients on how to prevent the need for a filling again. Patients who play a contact sport should invest in a custom-fit mouthguard to protect their teeth. Our office can create a custom mouthguard that offers the best protection for a patient’s teeth. Brushing twice a day for two minutes will prevent plaque from accumulating and causing other cavities.

My Dentist Friend can fit your next filling and wants to make the process as effective as possible. Contact our office at 856-484-4114 to book your consultation appointment.