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Dental fillings are among the most common procedures at a dental clinic, and a majority of people need fillings during their lifetime. The straightforward procedure replaces decaying or damaged areas of teeth with a filling. Below is an overview of the process and aftercare involved in dental fillings.

What Does the Procedure Involve?

You should only be at the dental clinic for a short time, and in many cases, under an hour. Your dentist will begin by using an anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area to reduce pain and discomfort. In some cases, a dental dam is inserted to isolate the area being worked on and give your dentist easier access.

Your dentist will drill to remove any decaying parts of the tooth. They will then clean the area thoroughly. Next, it’s time to insert the filling, which is made from a range of materials. The most common types are composite fillings, composed of powdered glass or acrylic resin, and amalgam fillings made from a combination of metallic elements. Other people prefer gold or silver, and ceramic fillings are also an option.

At the end of the procedure, the dentist will polish the filling to make sure it doesn’t affect your bite.

What Happens After the Procedure?

dental clinicDental fillings carry minimal risk, but the affected area will continue to be numb for a few hours after you leave the dental clinic. It’s best to not eat on that side until the numbness fades. You may experience discomfort once the anesthetic has worn off, and the tooth will be sensitive to hot or cold food and drinks for a few days.

Rarely, a filling pulls away from the tooth, leaving a gap where bacteria will thrive and develop an infection. If you notice a gap, contact your dentist as soon as you can. It’s also possible to damage your fillings, and if that happens, you should schedule an appointment to have it replaced.

 

The dental clinic of David E. Smith, DMD, PSC in Nicholasville, KY, offers a full range of dental care from fillings and dentures to restorative and cosmetic dentistry. The experienced team serves patients of all ages with a welcoming approach to put you at ease. The clinic is also a member of the American Dental Association and the Kentucky Dental Association, among other dental associations. To schedule an appointment, call (859) 887-4008 or visit their website.

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