Signs You Need Dental Fillings in Willoughby Hills
Do you want to know how to tell if you need a filling? Look for these common signs that might indicate it’s time for a restorative treatment:
- Cavities or Tooth Decay: If plaque and bacteria have weakened your tooth enamel, a filling can seal and restore the affected area, protecting it from further decay.
- Tooth Sensitivity: If you experience discomfort or pain when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages, it could signal cracks or decay in your teeth that may require a filling.
- Chipped or Cracked Teeth: A filling can effectively bond and repair small chips or cracks, restoring both function and appearance to your teeth.
- Grinding Wear: If you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), fillings can repair worn areas and help prevent additional damage to your teeth.
The Benefits of Dental Fillings
Restoring damaged or decayed teeth with dental fillings in Willoughby Hills provide numerous benefits, such as:
- Restored Functionality: Fillings rebuild your tooth’s structure, allowing you to chew, bite, and speak comfortably again. You won’t have to avoid certain foods or feel discomfort when drinking hot or cold liquids.
- Enhanced Durability: Modern filling materials are strong and long-lasting, protecting against everyday wear and tear while ensuring a durable tooth restoration.
- Improved Aesthetics: Dr. Abigail Kelley uses tooth-colored composite fillings that blend seamlessly with your natural smile, making the restoration nearly invisible. No one will notice you’ve had work done.
- Preventative Care: Leaving dental decay untreated can lead to more severe problems, such as tooth loss or infections. Fillings seal the affected area, protecting your tooth from further damage and helping to preserve your oral health.
Biodentine
Ask us about Biodentine! It is a cutting-edge biocompatible material used in modern dentistry for various restorative procedures. It acts as a dentin substitute, offering exceptional sealing properties and superior durability. Because of its ability to stimulate dentin regeneration, Biodentine is a preferred choice for deep cavities. Its biocompatibility ensures minimal irritation to the surrounding tissue, promoting faster healing and long-term success. By integrating Biodentine into treatments, we can provide patients with more effective and lasting solutions for maintaining their oral health. It can also stimulate dentin bridge formation, further enhancing its role in regenerative treatments.
The Process for Dental Fillings
If you’re concerned about getting a dental filling, know the procedure is simple and routine. Here’s what you can expect during your visit to Kelley Family Dentistry:
- Comprehensive Examination: Dr. Abigail Kelley will thoroughly examine the affected tooth. She uses advanced diagnostic tools like digital X-rays and intraoral cameras to ensure an accurate assessment and create a personalized treatment plan.
- Preparing the Tooth: The next step involves carefully cleaning the tooth and removing any decayed material. Dr. Kelley uses effective and minimally invasive methods to ensure a comfortable experience, making the process quick and efficient.
- Placing the Filling: Once she has prepared the tooth, Dr. Abigail Kelley will place the filling material in layers, ensuring it molds to the natural contours of your tooth. For composite (tooth-colored) fillings, she will use a special curing light to harden the material, ensuring it bonds securely and creates a strong, long-lasting restoration.
- Finishing and Polishing: After placing the filling, Dr. Kelley will smooth and polish it to ensure it fits comfortably in your mouth and aligns with your bite. She will make any necessary adjustments so the filling doesn’t cause discomfort when you chew.
Caring for Your Fillings
Proper aftercare is essential for the longevity of your dental filling. Here’s how you can ensure the best results:
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: If you’ve received an amalgam (metal) filling, avoid eating hard or sticky foods for at least 24 hours to allow it to set properly.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss daily to keep your fillings and surrounding teeth clean and healthy. Proper oral care will help prevent future decay or damage.
- Follow-Up Visits: Schedule regular check-ups to maintain your fillings and monitor your oral health. Dr. Abigail Kelley will check the condition of your fillings and ensure everything is in good shape.
Make an Appointment for Fillings in Willoughby Hills
We blend skill and experience to restore the health of your teeth with high-quality fillings and personalized care. We provide blankets, pillows, warm drinks, and water to make your visit more comfortable. We also offer flexible financing options through CareCredit, making dental care affordable and accessible without added financial worry.
If you need dental fillings in Willoughby Hills, schedule a consultation with Dr. Abigail Kelley at Kelley Family Dentistry today. Contact us to set up your appointment and achieve a healthier, more confident smile!
