Why are Restorations/Fillings Important?

Preservation of Tooth Structure: Fillings are used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay (cavities) or trauma. By filling the cavities, dentists prevent further decay and preserve the remaining healthy tooth structure. This helps to maintain the integrity and functionality of the tooth.

1. Prevention of Tooth Loss: Left untreated, cavities can worsen and lead to tooth loss. Fillings help to stop the progression of decay, preventing the need for more invasive treatments like root canals or extractions.

2. Relief from Pain and Sensitivity: Cavities can cause toothaches and sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages. Fillings can alleviate these symptoms by sealing off the damaged area and protecting the inner layers of the tooth from exposure to irritants.

3. Restoration of Functionality: Teeth with cavities may experience compromised functionality, such as difficulty chewing. Fillings restore the tooth's shape and function, allowing patients to chew and bite properly again.

4. Prevention of Infection: Untreated cavities can lead to infections within the tooth, resulting in abscesses and potentially spreading to other parts of the body. Fillings help to seal off the decayed area, preventing bacteria from entering and causing infection.

5. Cosmetic Enhancement: In addition to restoring function, fillings can also improve the appearance of teeth by filling in gaps, cracks, or discolored areas.

What do we cover?

During your check-up, your dentist will look for signs of decay or cracks. If something needs your attention, they will let you know immediately. Fillings are a much more crucial preventive measure than root canal treatment, which can result from extensive tooth decay. By closing the cavity, the dentist prevents bacteria from entering and saves the tooth in the least invasive way.

The process is simple and often requires one or two appointments. Once the dentist has assessed the treatment area, they will discuss the costs and procedures required. On the day of your scheduled filling, your dentist will numb the area to ensure a pain-free experience and remove decay before filling the clean cavity with the appropriate material.