A damaged or decayed tooth can be quite painful and unsightly. Without treatment, decay can worsen and lead to severe problems, such as tooth loss. The team of skilled dentists at Trident Dental offers a variety of tooth filling options to restore teeth. Located in Houston, Texas, the team provides durable, natural-looking fillings that serve as a long-lasting solution to decay. To schedule a tooth filling procedure, call Trident Dental or use the online scheduling tool today.
A tooth filling is a treatment method for decayed teeth, or known as cavities. Decayed material can threaten the structure of healthy teeth and needs to be removed. Fillings are used to fill in the spaces left by cleaned-out decay so that bacteria can’t enter and worsen your tooth’s condition. Teeth with fillings on them remain durable and healthy.
Fillings can be tooth-colored so they don’t detract from your smile.
In some cases, tooth decay or cavities will be accompanied by symptoms such as pain or heightened tooth sensitivity. However, that isn’t always the case.
The only way to know for sure if you need a filling is to come in for a checkup with the Trident Dental team. During your routine dental exam, your dentist and hygienist use a small mirror to examine the surfaces of each tooth for signs of decay.
If there’s anything abnormal, your dentist will recommend X-rays to capture detailed images of your mouth. This allows them to determine whether or not you have a cavity and figure out the best course of action.
During a tooth filling procedure, your dentist may use a local anesthetic to remove any possible discomfort. Before placing the tooth filling, your dentist first uses special dental instruments to clean out your tooth and get rid of any decayed material.
After this cleaning stage, your dentist fills in the spaces with the tooth filling material, which may be composite resin, porcelain, or amalgam. During the last step, the filling is molded to match the shape and appearance of your natural tooth.
Your tooth filling should last at least 10-15 years, depending on how well you care for it. The key to a long-lasting filling is good oral hygiene. Make sure to treat your filling just like one of your natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly and keep your regularly scheduled checkups at Trident Dental for exams and cleanings.
To schedule your next appointment at Trident Dental, call the office or use the online booking tool today.
