Fillings are commonly performed at dentist offices. To complete this minor procedure, a dentist will likely use either silver amalgam—a mixture of several metals—or composite resin, a combination of plastic and glass that closely resembles natural teeth. Here are just some of the reasons why a dental professional might suggest a filling.

3 Reasons You May Need a Dental Filling

1. Cavities

As bacteria eat away at your teeth, they form decay, called cavities. While the cavity itself produces a depression, your dentist has to carve out the decay to keep it from spreading, making the hole even bigger. The resulting void must be sealed off with a dental filling, so bacteria can’t accumulate and start the decay process all over again.

2. Fractures

In addition to decay, your teeth are also vulnerable to damage from physical force. For example, you may grind your teeth in your sleep or sustain a blow to the jaw, such as during a car accident. This impact can fracture a tooth, leaving a thin, almost undetectable crack. Your dentist can fill the rift with a composite resin mixture, which joins the two separated sections.

3. Discoloration

Despite a diligent dental hygiene routine, your teeth may gather stains from pigmented foods and beverages. Unfortunately, there are some nooks and crannies that teeth whitening treatments can’t reach.

In this case, your dentist might apply a small composite filling to the hard-to-reach, discolored area, so it becomes the same hue as the rest of the tooth. The filling will also raise the area, making it easier to clean in the future.

If you need a dental filling, head to Kaimuki Dental Group of Honolulu, HI. Their six dentists provide essential general dentistry services as well as cosmetic and restorative offerings. Whether you need to schedule a quick cleaning or an implant procedure, you can count on their convenient hours and compassionate staff to help. To learn more about this dental group, visit the website. You can also call (808) 737-7905 to schedule an appointment.