Fillings in Joppa, MD

Dental cavities are without a doubt some of the most common problems seen by our dental team. Cavities occur when the bacteria that is naturally found in our mouths interacts with the sugars in the foods and drinks we consume, producing a sticky, transparent film on our teeth called plaque. It isn’t always easy to see plaque, but you can sometimes feel it with your teeth as it seems slippery. If this plaque isn’t removed properly through brushing and flossing, it can harden into a substance called tartar which are thick, hardened deposits, or become acidic, causing demineralization of the teeth and dental cavities.

What are Fillings?

Fillings are used to repair dental cavities in your teeth that have been caused by decay. These areas of damage are regrettably permanent, but this doesn’t have to mean that they continue to cause you problems. A filling works by quite literally filling the hole that has been left after the decay has been removed. This prevents any further food particles or bacteria from becoming trapped inside the hole where they will almost certainly cause further decay and damage.

The process to place a filling is very simple. Most patients will have a local anesthetic ahead of the procedure. The reason for this is because all traces of decay will need to be removed before the filling can be carried out and the removal usually is done using various tools including a drill. However, aside from a numb mouth, there should be no real recovery period and you will be able to start using your tooth again right away.

Fillings can be made from various materials tooth-colored resin or silver amalgam. Unsurprisingly, tooth-colored varieties are more popular since they make the restorative work virtually impossible to spot and prevent the need for unsightly repairs. With the right care, they can last for many years before being replaced, and replacements can be fitted very easily.

Signs That you Have a Dental Cavity

Many people are surprised to learn that tooth decay doesn’t always cause toothache. This is often because it takes some time for the decay to penetrate past the hardest outer layer of the teeth and reach the softer, more sensitive center. It is usually when the decay penetrates the dentin, which is the middle layer, that dental pain occurs. This can vary between sudden, sharp pain to a constant dull ache. Other symptoms of dental cavities include:

• A dark spot on your tooth
• An unpleasant taste in your mouth
• Sensitivity when you eat or drink something very sweet, hot or cold

Since decay is progressive, it is important that you arrange for your teeth to be assessed as soon as possible if you suspect that you have a dental cavity.

If you need more information about fillings, or if you’d like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Saccoh so that your teeth can be comprehensively assessed, please call in FCI Dental Care in Joppa, MD today.