Dental fillings are essential restorative treatments aimed at strengthening and revitalizing teeth compromised by decay or damage. During this procedure, our dentist removes the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth and fills the resulting cavity with durable dental material, such as composite resin or amalgam. This not only reinforces the tooth's structural integrity but also restores its natural shape and function.
At Dr. Clementine C. Ignacio, DMD, we consider dental fillings as crucial for preventing further deterioration, and they play a pivotal role in promoting oral health by protecting teeth from future decay and damage. By effectively making teeth strong and healthy once more, dental fillings ensure patients can continue to enjoy a pain-free, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Types of Dental Fillings
Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam is a metal alloy composed of mercury, silver, copper, tin, and other metals. It is the most popular type of dental filling in Anaheim, because of its durability and strength. However, amalgam is not among the most aesthetically pleasing options because it contains mercury.
Composite Resin Fillings
Composite resin fillings are made of a combination of plastic and glass particles. They come in various shades to match your natural tooth color, making them less visible than other fillings. They are less expensive than gold fillings, but they wear down over time and can stain easily.
Porcelain Fillings
Porcelain fillings are made from ceramic material. They are more expensive than composite resin fillings, but they are more durable and resistant to staining. They also look more natural than other types of fillings.
Glass Ionomer Fillings
A glass ionomer is a type of composite resin that is made of a mixture of glass and acrylic. This material is used for both restorative and cosmetic purposes. The glass ionomer is bonded to the tooth with a bonding agent, and it hardens when exposed to light.
The Procedure for Dental Filling
The dental filling procedure involves the removal of decayed or damaged tooth material and the subsequent restoration of the tooth's structural integrity.
After numbing the affected area with a local anesthetic, our dentist in Anaheim uses specialized instruments to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. The resulting cavity is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Subsequently, a filling material, often composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain, is precisely placed into the cavity, shaped to match the tooth's natural contours, and hardened using a special curing light. The final step involves adjusting the filling to ensure proper alignment with the patient's bite and a smooth surface.
Dental fillings are essential for repairing and strengthening teeth compromised by cavities or damage, restoring their functionality, and preventing further deterioration.
If you suspect you need a dental filling or require a dental checkup, visit Dr. Clementine C. Ignacio, DMD, at 2415 West Lincoln Ave Suite A, Anaheim, CA 92081, or call (714) 220-1032. We'll assess your oral health, provide expert guidance, and ensure your smile stays strong and healthy.
