Dental Fillings In Fort Worth, TX

Dental fillings are a restorative dental procedure used to repair minor tooth decay and damage by “filling in” the damaged area. Dental fillings can be made out of a variety of materials, including composite resin, porcelain, gold, or amalgam. Your dentist will work with you to choose the material that best matches your dental needs and aesthetic preferences. Once the filling material is determined, it is molded into a shape that effectively fills in the cavity. Once in place, the filling restores the tooth’s appearance and functionality.

Different Kinds of Dental Fillings

There are several different types of dental fillings you can get at your dentist’s office. They are as follows:

• Silver amalgam fillings

Silver amalgam fillings are sometimes referred to as “metal” or “amalgam” fillings. This type of filling is a mixture of metals such as silver, tin, copper, and mercury. 

• Gold fillings

Gold fillings are durable, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion. Gold fillings are strong, but they don’t have the aesthetic appeal of composite fillings. Hence, they’re commonly used on back teeth.

• Tooth-colored/ composite fillings

Tooth-colored fillings, also sometimes referred to as white fillings, are made from composite resin. This material is matched very closely to the shade of your natural teeth, so it will blend in beautifully. The resin can also be used to repair slightly chipped teeth, and it can also be used to replace old silver fillings. Because of their aesthetics, they are the most common type of dental fillings. 

Dental Fillings - Procedure

Dental fillings restore both the form and function of your damaged tooth. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in your mouth convert sugar and starch from the foods you eat into harmful acids. The acids can cause erosion, which is the loss of tooth enamel.

When placing a filling, the dentist will first remove the decay and clean the area. Then, they will place a thin composite resin onto the tooth and sculpt it to look like a natural tooth. The resin will be hardened with a curing light, and the dentist will polish it, so it feels comfortable.

Advantages

• Dental fillings restore teeth and protect them from further damage
• Early dental fillings can stop the spread of decay
• Tooth-colored fillings are discreet and match the color of your teeth
• Dental fillings can help you chew and speak properly
• Dental fillings treat cavities and restore comfort

Caring for Dental Fillings

Good oral hygiene practices can help extend the life of a dental filling.

• Regular dental exams are recommended to detect any early signs of infection. Fillings also require regular maintenance, and your dentist may recommend dental checkups every 6 months to 1 year.
• To care for a dental filling, be sure to brush at least twice a day and floss daily. Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or pencils. A high-sugar diet can lead to tooth erosion, so limit your intake of sweets.

To learn more about our dental services or schedule an appointment with us, call dentist Fort Worth TX at (817) 924-6211 or visit our dental office located at 2469 Forest Park Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76110.