Getting a dental filling is one of the most common oral health treatments people require. At Legacy Dental Arts, offering general and cosmetic dentistry services to patients in the Eagle River, AK, region, they’ll gladly explain why this treatment may be necessary.

Dental Fillings: Why You Need Them

The Process of Decay

When you eat sweet foods, some of the sugar can get left behind on your teeth. Brushing, flossing, and scheduling regular cleanings all help to remove it.

However, if the sugar accumulates, it can attract bacteria and develop into plaque. This substance eats away at your teeth, creating a hole, or cavity. If not properly addressed, the bacteria will spread to the root section of the tooth and possibly even the gums. Over time, this may lead to an infection. Some people even lose teeth as a result.

Filling the Cavity

Dental fillings are applied when a dentist spots a cavity. The process simply involves filling in the hole so the bacteria can’t cause further damage. If there is any infected tissue, the dentist may remove it first before applying the filling.

Although fillings are made to last, they can break. If one of your old ones is damaged, you’ll need a replacement.

Dentists have a variety of materials to choose from when applying dental fillings. Amalgam is the easiest material to apply, but composite resin ones are designed to blend in more naturally with the color of your teeth. Patients generally prefer them for cosmetic reasons, but it’s important to heed the advice of a professional when they recommend a certain type of dental filling.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, one of the most common symptoms of a cavity, schedule a visit with Legacy Dental Arts in Eagle River, AK. They’ll determine the cause, offering the correct treatment for your needs. Contact them online for more information about becoming a patient, or call (907) 622-7874.