Tooth Fillings
Brentwood, TN

A tooth filling is a dental restoration that is used to repair a cavity or damage to a tooth. Fillings can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that has been chipped or cracked. The filling material is placed in the affected area of the tooth to restore its shape, function, and strength.

Tooth fillings can be made from a variety of materials, including:

• Amalgam | a silver-colored metal that is a common and durable filling material.
• Composite resin | a tooth-colored material that can be matched to the natural color of your teeth for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
• Gold | a durable and long-lasting filling material that is more expensive than other options.
• Ceramic | a tooth-colored material that is often used for larger fillings or to repair front teeth.

The color of tooth fillings depends on the material used. Amalgam fillings are silver in color, while composite resin and ceramic fillings can be matched to the natural color of your teeth for a more natural appearance. At Jolly & Morton Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Morton can help you choose the best type of filling material for your needs based on the location and size of the filling, your budget, and your personal preferences.

There are several types of dental fillings available, including:

• Amalgam fillings | These are silver-colored metal fillings that have been used for over a century. They are strong and durable, but some people prefer not to have them because of their appearance.
• Composite fillings | These are tooth-colored fillings that can be matched to the natural color of your teeth. They are less noticeable than amalgam fillings and can be used on front or back teeth.
• Gold fillings | These are made of gold alloy and are the most durable type of filling. They are also the most expensive.
• Ceramic fillings | These are made of porcelain or other materials and can be matched to the natural color of your teeth. They are more resistant to staining than composite fillings and are a good choice for larger fillings.
• Glass ionomer fillings | These are tooth-colored fillings that release fluoride over time to help prevent decay. They are not as strong as other types of fillings and may need to be replaced more often.

The best type of filling for you will depend on several factors, including the size and location of the cavity, your budget, and your personal preferences. Dr. Morton can help you choose the best type of filling based on your individual needs and dental health. It’s important to keep in mind that all types of fillings require good oral hygiene habits and regular dental checkups to help ensure their longevity and prevent future dental problems.

The lifespan of composite resin dental fillings can vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the filling, your oral hygiene habits, and the amount of wear and tear the filling is subjected to. On average, composite resin fillings can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, but with proper care and maintenance, they may last even longer.

To extend the lifespan of your composite resin fillings, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You should also avoid habits that can cause excessive wear and tear on your fillings, such as grinding your teeth, biting your nails, or using your teeth to open packages.

Regular dental checkups are also important to ensure the health of your teeth and fillings. Dr. Morton can monitor the condition of your fillings and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements before they become more extensive and costly.

During a dental filling procedure, you can expect the following steps:

1. Numbing the area | Dr. Morton will begin by numbing the area around the tooth that needs a filling. This is typically done with a local anesthetic, which will help to minimize any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
2. Removing decay | Once the area is numb, Dr. Morton will use a dental drill to remove any decay from the affected tooth. This may involve removing a small amount of healthy tooth structure as well, to ensure that all of the decay is removed.
3. Cleaning the area | Once all of the decay has been removed, Dr. Morton will clean the area to remove any debris or bacteria that may be present.
4. Preparing the filling material | The filling material will typically be made of either composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain. Dr. Morton will prepare the filling material to match the color of your natural teeth.
5. Placing the filling | Dr. Morton will carefully place the filling material into the cavity, shaping it to fit the contours of your tooth.
6. Curing the fillings | If composite resin is used, Dr. Morton will use a special light to cure the material, which helps to harden and bond it to your tooth.
7. Polishing | Finally, Dr. Morton will polish the filling to smooth out any rough edges and to ensure that it blends in seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.

Overall, a dental filling procedure is a relatively simple and straightforward process, usually taking about 30-60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the filling.

Temporary tooth filling kits are generally not recommended as a long-term solution for several reasons:

1. Limited durability | Temporary filling materials are not as durable as permanent filling materials and can wear away quickly, which can lead to further decay or damage to the tooth.
2. Infection risk | If the temporary filling material does not seal the tooth properly, bacteria can enter the tooth and cause an infection.
3. Incorrect use | Applying a temporary filling material requires some skill and experience. If the material is not applied correctly, it may not properly seal the tooth, causing further damage or discomfort.
4. Delayed treatment | Using a temporary filling material may give the false impression that the tooth is fixed, leading to a delay in seeking proper dental treatment. Delaying treatment can cause the tooth to become more damaged and may require more extensive treatment in the future.

If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, it is important to call Jolly & Morton Advanced Dentistry as soon as possible to get proper treatment. Dr. Morton can recommend the best filling material for your specific needs and ensure that the filling is applied correctly to restore the function and appearance of your tooth.

During a cavity filling procedure, Dr. Morton will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around your tooth. This means that you should not feel any pain during the procedure itself.

However, you may feel some discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure as the anesthesia wears off. You may also experience some sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, but this should subside within a few days.

It’s important to remember that getting a cavity filled is a routine dental procedure that’s typically painless and can prevent further damage or decay to your tooth. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedure, give Jolly & Morton Advanced Dentistry a call today!

In general, a cavity filling procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

The type of filling material used can affect the duration of the procedure. For example, composite resin fillings may take longer to place than amalgam fillings because the composite material needs to be layered and cured with a special light.

It is important to remember that the length of the procedure is not an indication of the quality of the treatment. Dr. Morton will take the time needed to ensure that the filling is properly placed and shaped to restore the function and appearance of your tooth.