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Dental Fillings

Beachwood, OH

illustration showing dental fillings in Beachwood, OH

One of the most common dental services we do here at Aspire Dental Spa is dental fillings. These fillings are used to fill in the space left in a tooth by a cavity or other cause. The filling helps prevent additional damage to the tooth and protects its root. The process of getting a filling is quite simple and typically takes less than an hour. While it may be routine, dental fillings are quite important. You need to come in for a filling if you have a cavity or other damage to your tooth that has resulted in a hole.

What Is A Filling?

A filling is exactly what it sounds like - it fills the space in a tooth. This space is most often caused by a cavity caused by bacteria slowly eating away at the enamel of the tooth. Once we clean the tooth and remove all of the plaque and tartar, the tooth needs to be filled so the root does not become exposed and so you can chew normally with it. Fillings can also be used if you have teeth that are worn or that have cracked.

What Are Fillings Made Of?

Fillings were once mostly made out of metal, but today, they can be made from a variety of materials. Silver and gold alloys are still used, but most people prefer fillings that more closely match the natural coloring of their teeth and are not as noticeable. These fillings may be made from porcelain or composite resin.

What Is The Process Of Getting A Filling?

If we have identified a tooth that needs a filling, we may be able to fill it the same day. Regardless, the process of getting a filling is the same. We numb the part of your mouth around the tooth so you will not feel anything. Next, we clean the cavity, removing all of the bacteria, plaque, and tartar. We will also remove all of the decay, which is the discolored part of the tooth. Once that has been removed, we will clean the area. In some cases, we may need to remove a bit more of the tooth so the filling can be securely placed.

Once the tooth is prepared, we will add the filling material to it and carefully mold the material into the correct shape. The filling typically sets fairly quickly by itself, though with some materials we do need to run a curing light over it. After the filling is set, we use special tools to polish the filling to remove any sharp edges.

Who Should Come In For Fillings?

You need to come see us if you have a cavity or have damaged a tooth so badly that part of it has broken off or it has cracked. Leaving the tooth as it is makes it easier for bacteria to further damage the tooth. It could even result in the root being exposed, possibly leading to a root canal, or even worse, tooth extraction. If you are experiencing pain in a tooth or have damaged one, contact Aspire Dental Spa as soon as you can. Call us at (216) 342-4388 today to make an appointment.