If you have never had a dental filling before, you may be feeling apprehensive at the thought of this procedure. This article explores the treatment from start to finish so you can fully understand what to expect.
Assessment
When you visit the dentist for your first filling, they will perform an initial assessment to discuss your medical history and what needs to be done. Next, they will perform a visual check of your teeth and will use tools to test the strength of each one. If they find any decay or cavities, they may recommend that you have a filling. A filling plugs the hole in a tooth to prevent any further decay. The filling also helps to stabilise the tooth. If they are concerned about the extent of decay, they may also take X-rays of your teeth to check out any underlying issues.
Preparation
Once they have determined that you need a filling, they will prepare your tooth by cleaning it and removing any decay. They may also apply a topical anaesthetic to numb the area. This will help to ensure that you don't feel any pain or discomfort during the filling process.
Application
Once the tooth is prepared, they will apply resin or silver amalgam to the cavity to fill it. This is a quick and relatively painless process. The dentist will use a special tool to place the filling in the hole. They may also use a curing light to harden it in place. The whole process usually takes only a few minutes. After the filling is in place, they will check it for proper fit and function. You should expect some minor discomfort after the procedure, but this should go away within a day or two.
Aftercare
Once the procedure is finished, your dentist will give you some advice about aftercare. They may recommend that you avoid biting down on that side of your mouth for a few hours and that you brush your teeth gently afterwards. It would be best to keep an eye out for any signs of infection or discomfort. If you experience any swelling or pain after your filling, be sure to contact your dentist immediately. Otherwise, you can expect to have a healthy and functioning tooth once the anaesthesia wears off.
If you'd like further information about dental fillings, you should contact a local dental practice today. A dentist will be happy to answer any questions you may have about this type of treatment.
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