3 Important Tips When Having Dental Fillings Put In For Cavities
Cavities can be extremely painful, and you'll probably have one at some point in your life. Dental fillings can replace this decayed portion, though, to help you deal with pain and give your tooth added structure again. If you remember these tips, this procedure will go smoothly.
See If You're a Good Candidate
Not everyone is a good candidate for dental fillings, truthfully. Sometimes tooth pain may occur for reasons other than a cavity, in which case dental fillings wouldn't be an effective treatment. You can find out for sure, though, by visiting your dentist.
They'll fully inspect your teeth, particularly the ones that are experiencing the most amount of pain. If cavities are present, your dentist will let you know right away. You'll then be briefed on the process of getting dental fillings, including its costs, benefits, and potential side-effects.
Select a Filling Type
There are many different types of fillings you can choose from today, and some are better than others. Tooth-colored composite fillings are popular options, as they look just like real teeth. They're also chemically bonded to your tooth's structure, giving the them ample support.
Ceramic fillings are another viable option and are made out of porcelain. They don't stain as readily as the other options, and with proper maintenance, you can get them to last up to a decade or more. Other options you might consider include glass-ionomer, silver, and cast-gold fillings. Try finding a type that works for your budget and visual preferences.
Follow Up With Proper Maintenance
Just because your cavities are filled professionally by a dentist doesn't mean your job is finished. You'll still need to properly maintain your dental fillings over the years so that they remain structurally sound. Start off by finding out how long it takes for your fillings to set. You can then be extra cautious during this time to prevent your fillings from becoming damaged.
It's also important to avoid eating hard and sticky foods. They can fracture your fillings and thus cost you a lot of money in repairs. Finally, follow up with your dentist over the next few months. They'll make sure your fillings take and ensure surrounding structures properly heal.
Cavities are no joke. You need to respond to them promptly by having dental fillings put in by your dentist. This procedure will go according to plan if you know what it involves and take the right actions before, during, and after it's completed.