When your dentist gives you the news that you need a filling, you might envision a mouth full of silver deposits inside your teeth. It is no longer necessary for fillings to be so visible; instead, you can get fillings that match your teeth. Let’s learn about this advancement called a composite filling.

What is a cavity?
The reason you need a filling is that you have a cavity, which is a hole in your tooth caused by decay. Cavities result from bacteria in your mouth contained in plaque, which interacts with the sugars and carbohydrates that you eat. The acid that results from this harms your tooth enamel and can eventually cause cavities.

What does a filling do?
A filling is needed to treat your cavity, or else the decay will worsen and enter your nerve canal. This advanced condition is painful, and can cause more serious issues like infections or abscesses. A filling may also be necessary to repair or replace an old filling, or to fix a chipped tooth. It’s best to get your cavity filled as soon as your dentist advises it, because untreated cavities may require more complex and painful procedures like root canals to save your tooth.

What is a composite filling?
Composite fillings are made up of plastic and glass particles, and are popular because they match your tooth color. Also, they bond securely to your tooth. The process of getting a composite filling involves your dentist cleaning the tooth thoroughly, applying a bonding solution, and then filling the hole with composite material. It is hardened in just a few seconds using a high intensity light.

What should I expect after getting a filling?
It is not unusual to experience some discomfort after getting a filling, but it is usually alleviated with over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen. Contact your dentist if symptoms last longer than anticipated.

Replace mercury filling with white fillings – schedule a visit today at our Toronto dental office.