Repair Cavities With Dental Fillings at Westbury Dental Spa
If you have a cavity or other type of tooth damage, your dentist may recommend a dental filling. This general dentistry procedure can restore your tooth and prevent further decay or damage. At Westbury Dental Spa, Dr. Farhana Oza-Chughtai, one of the best dentists in Westbury, provides customized tooth fillings for patients in Queens, Hempstead, Garden City, NY, and surrounding areas.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a common restorative dental treatment used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, trauma, or wear. When a tooth is damaged, a cavity or hole can form, which can allow bacteria to enter and cause further damage or infection. Customized tooth fillings from Westbury Dental Spa fill in these cavities, restoring the structure and function of the tooth.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
Receiving dental fillings offers various benefits, including:
- Restores Tooth Functionality: Tooth fillings restore the functionality of teeth damaged by decay, chipping, or cracking. They allow patients to bite and chew food properly and maintain oral health.
- Prevents Further Damage: Dental fillings prevent further damage to teeth by sealing off the area affected by decay or damage. It prevents bacteria from entering the tooth and causing further decay or infection.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Fillings can improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile by repairing damaged teeth that may appear unsightly.
- Quick and Painless Procedure: Getting a dental filling is a relatively quick and painless procedure that can be done in one dental visit.
- Cost-Effective: Dental fillings are a cost-effective option for repairing damaged teeth. The cost of a filling is significantly lower than that of more invasive procedures, like root canals or tooth extractions.
- Protects Nerves: When tooth decay or damage is left untreated, it can lead to infection or inflammation of the nerves inside the tooth. A dental filling can prevent this by sealing off the affected area and protecting the nerves.
What Can Dental Fillings Fix?
Dental fillings are a versatile and effective treatment for many dental problems. They help you maintain good oral health and a beautiful smile. Problems that our Westbury dentists can address with fillings include:
- Cavities
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Worn teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Gaps between teeth
If you suspect you need a dental filling, don’t hesitate to call our Westbury, NY, dentists at (516) 282-5100 to schedule a consultation. If left untreated, cavities and damaged teeth can worsen and leave lasting impacts on your oral health.
The Dental Filling Process
Depending on the severity of your case, you can receive dental fillings in one visit to our Westbury, NY, office.
- Examination and Diagnosis: Before the dental filling process begins, your Westbury general dentist will examine the affected tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage and the best treatment approach.
- Local Anesthetic: Once your dentist has determined that a filling is needed, they’ll numb the area around the tooth using a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
- Removal of Decay: Your dentist will remove any decayed or damaged parts of the tooth, creating a clean and stable base for the filling.
- Filling Placement: They’ll place the filling material into the cavity, carefully shaping and smoothing it to ensure a natural-looking and functional result. Depending on the filling material, your dentist may use a special light to harden the material and bond it to the tooth.
- Polishing and Bite Check: After the filling material has hardened, your dentist will polish it to match your teeth’s natural shape and texture. They’ll also check your bite to ensure the filling doesn’t interfere with your normal chewing and biting function.
Frequently Asked Questions
On average, a dental filling can last up to 15 years when properly cared for. The longevity varies depending on several factors, including the type of filling material, the size and location of the filling, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. It’s crucial to have regular dental checkups to monitor the condition of your fillings and replace them as necessary.
Getting a dental filling should not be a painful experience. The dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth before removing the decayed or damaged part of the tooth and placing the filling material. After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort, but this should subside within a few days.
In general, the process can take between 30 minutes to one hour. The time it takes to get a dental filling can vary depending on the size and location of the cavity and the type of filling material used.
After receiving a dental filling, avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling material to harden completely. It’s best to avoid hard or sticky foods that can dislodge or damage the filling and to practice good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing and flossing.
Restore Your Smile’s Beauty and Functionality
If you’re experiencing cavities, cracked or broken teeth, or worn teeth, consult with our Westbury dentists to discuss if dental fillings are a suitable treatment option for you. Taking care of your dental health can improve your overall well-being, so make sure to prioritize regular dental checkups and follow your dentist’s recommendations for maintaining good oral hygiene.
Call our Westbury, NY, dental office today at (516) 282-5100 to book your consultation. You can also schedule an appointment online by filling out our contact form.