Category: Dental
Fillings are used to fix minor tooth problems such as fractures and decay. A filling is designed to even out the tooth’s surface, making it easier to bite and chew. Decay also causes sensitivity, making eating painful. A filling helps to remove the pain by providing a protective covering. If you need to get a dental filling in Melbourne, continue reading to find out what’s involved.
H2:Planning
Before you get a filling, a dentist will look at your teeth and decide on the best course of action. Fillings can be used to repair minor fractures and decay, but more serious problems may require other treatments such as acrown or a root canal treatment.
The examination is carried out by the dentist with a dental probe to investigate a tooth’s surface. An x-ray may be performed to provide greater detail if things look uncertain after the initial inspection.
There are a variety of materials that can be used for a filling. These materials can include composite resin, porcelain andsilver amalgam. The decision of which material will be used is made based upon factors such as the patient’smedical requirements and individual needs, such astheir financial circumstances.
H2:The Procedure
The procedure of getting a dental filling in Melbourne follows these basic steps:
- Local anaesthetic is applied to the area
- Decayed/damaged areas are drilled and prepared for restoration
- The area is cleaned of anyremaining bacteria/debris
- Filling material is applied
- The tooth is polished to complete the procedure
For fillings that are made from composite resin, there are additional steps. The special tooth-coloured material is applied layer by layer, and each layer is hardened before the next is applied. After the layers are applied, the dentist shapes the material to match the other teeth and removes any excess material.Composite resin fillings also require the affected tooth to be isolated so the bonding process can function as required. Adhesives are placed in the affected area and then the composite material is added, which is hardened with a bonding light.
The exact requirements during each stage can vary. Sometimes a laser is required to remove damaged or decayed parts of the tooth, but often a dental hand-piece is sufficient. However, some dentists are more comfortable with a particular tool and may opt to use it as a personal preference.
H2:Follow-Up
After the process is complete, you should have a discussion with your dentist about how to best look after your new filling, particularly in the days following the treatment. You should also askhow you can prevent similar problems from occurring in your other teeth too.
Your dentist will likely advise you to maintain regular oral health practices to look after your teeth. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing in between your teeth and using an interdental cleaner daily are all essential. A specialist mouthwash may also be recommended if your dentist believes you’re particularly at risk of developing tooth decay.
After getting a dental filling in Melbourne, it’s not uncommon for a … Read More...