At Cottage Dental, we understand the importance of taking care of your teeth. That’s why our Fullerton, CA team is always stressing the importance of brushing and flossing to maintain a healthy smile. However, we also know that sometimes, despite best efforts, patients may suffer tooth damage or develop a cavity. In these cases, we are here to help restore your tooth with a dental filling!
Restoring Your Smile To Its Optimal State!
What are dental fillings?
Dental fillings are a restorative treatment that helps repair damaged teeth or fill cavities caused by tooth decay. At Cottage Dental, we offer tooth-colored fillings made from composite materials, which blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring a discreet and aesthetically pleasing result.
Why do I need a dental filling?
There are several reasons why you may need a dental filling, including:
- Tooth decay: When plaque and bacteria erode your tooth enamel, a cavity can form, requiring a filling to prevent further damage.
- Tooth fractures: A filling can help repair a cracked or broken tooth and restore its structural integrity.
- Worn-down teeth: Teeth can wear down over time due to factors like teeth grinding or clenching, and a filling can help restore their shape and function.
What are the symptoms of tooth decay?
It’s essential to recognize the signs of tooth decay early on to get timely treatment. The following are some common symptoms:
- Persistent toothache
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages
- Visible holes or dark spots on your teeth
- Swollen or bleeding gums around the affected tooth
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with our team at Cottage Dental for an evaluation.
What happens when I get a dental filling?
The dental filling process at Cottage Dental is a straightforward and efficient procedure to restore your tooth’s health and function. First, our team will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure. Next, the decayed portion of the tooth is carefully removed using specialized tools, and the tooth is cleaned and prepared for the filling material. The tooth-colored filling material is then placed in layers and hardened with a special light to ensure a strong bond. Finally, our dentist shapes and polishes the filling, making sure it matches your natural tooth’s appearance and function, leaving you with a restored, healthy smile.
What are the benefits of our dental fillings?
Our tooth-colored dental fillings offer several benefits:
- Aesthetically pleasing: The composite material used in our fillings blends seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring a discreet and natural-looking result.
- Strong and durable: Our dental fillings are designed to withstand the pressures of everyday chewing and biting, providing long-lasting protection for your teeth.
- Preserves tooth structure: Tooth-colored fillings require less removal of the natural tooth structure, preserving more of your healthy tooth.
How can I maintain my dental filling?
To ensure the longevity of your dental filling, follow these tips:
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush and floss daily and visit our office regularly for checkups and cleanings.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods: These can cause damage to your filling or dislodge it.
- Wear a mouthguard if needed: If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your filling and your teeth.
At Cottage Dental, our team is dedicated to keeping patients informed throughout the entire treatment process, so you can feel confident in the care you receive. If you believe that you or your child need a dental filling, schedule an appointment with us today to take the first step toward a healthier smile.