When your dentist tells you that you have a cavity, you might immediately think the worst and that you’re in for a great deal of pain and inconvenience. However, while tooth decay is never good, treating it with a filling is actually a fairly simple and minor procedure. 

When Are Fillings Necessary?

A tooth filling is used when you have a cavity, or decay in your tooth. More specifically, it’s a hole left behind by the bacteria after they have worn away your tooth enamel. Left untreated, this decay can cause significant pain and more damage to the tooth, which may eventually need to be removed. Adding a filling repairs the damage and helps prevent further damage to the tooth by removing the bacteria and decay before they spread. 

What Are the Different Types of Fillings?

The most common types of dental fillings are composite resin and amalgam. Amalgam fillings were used for decades and consist of a mixture of different metals, including silver. Although these are the longest lasting and least expensive fillings, they are also the most apparent. However, they tend to be easy to put in and hold up well to years of biting and chewing. 

Composite resin fillings have become more common in recent years, as they look more natural and blend in with the surrounding teeth better. Designed to match your natural tooth color, you can expect to replace a composite filling in about 10 to 15 years if you practice good oral hygiene. 

How Are Fillings Inserted?

When you need to have a cavity filled, your dentist will begin by numbing the area with a local anesthetic. Once that takes effect, the dentist will drill the cavity to remove all of the remaining decay. This space is then filled with the filling you've selected. For amalgam fillings, the dentist will compact the premixed material into the cavity and then shape it to match the rest of your teeth and ensure you maintain a proper bite. For a composite filling, the material is added in layers to fill the hole, shaped, and then cured using an ultraviolet light. In either case, the filling process takes about an hour or less. 

If you suspect you have a cavity and need a filling, the family dentists at the Dental Clinic of Onalaska can help. Serving patients from Onalaska, WI, and the surrounding area, these gentle and compassionate dentists offer general and cosmetic dentistry in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. Call (608) 783-3341 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about the practice and how to care for your teeth.