Cavity Fillings and Sealants
Maintain and protect your oral health with our dental fillings and sealants services. At our clinic, we offer comprehensive solutions to repair damaged teeth and prevent decay. Whether you need a cavity filled or want to safeguard your teeth against future cavities, our skilled dental team is here to help with state-of-the-art treatments that ensure your teeth stay healthy and strong.
Dental Fillings and Sealants
Dental Fillings: Restore Your Smile
Dental fillings are used to restore teeth damaged by decay back to their normal function and shape. If you have a tooth that requires a filling, our dentists will remove the decayed tooth material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cleaned-out cavity with a filling material.
Types of Fillings
We offer a variety of filling materials to suit every need and preference, including:
- Composite Resin: Matched to be the same color as your teeth and therefore used where a natural appearance is desired.
- Amalgam (Silver) Fillings: Known for their durability and strength, they are ideal for filling cavities in the back teeth.
- Porcelain Fillings: Also called inlays or onlays, they are produced in a lab and then bonded to the tooth. They can be matched to the color of the tooth and resist staining.
Dental Sealants: Prevent Tooth Decay
Dental sealants are a preventive treatment where a protective plastic coating is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. This coating seals the grooves and crannies that tend to collect food, protecting the tooth from decay.
Benefits of Sealants
- Effective Decay Prevention: Sealants keep out food particles and acids, preventing them from settling on your teeth where they can cause decay.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Sealants can protect the teeth for many years but need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.
- Ideal for Children and Teenagers: Sealants are especially beneficial for children and teenagers between the ages of 6 and 14, as they are the most cavity-prone years.
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How long do dental fillings last?
The lifespan of a filling depends on the material used and how well the filling and surrounding tooth are cared for. Generally, amalgam fillings can last 10-15 years, while composite fillings might need to be replaced every 5-10 years.
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Are dental sealants only for children?
No, adults can also benefit from sealants, especially if they have deep grooves in their teeth and no decay or fillings. Sealants can be a proactive step to prevent future cavities.
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Do dental fillings or sealants hurt?
These procedures are generally painless. Local anesthesia can be used during filling procedures to minimize discomfort. Sealants are applied without drilling or removing tooth structure, making them pain-free.
More questions?
If you have more questions about tooth fillings and sealants, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.