Fillings are a type of restorative dental procedure where a tooth is filled after it has experienced decay. When a tooth decays, it needs to be partially or completely removed to prevent the spread of decay and bacteria. Because this space needs to be filled, the filling is used to form a complete and healthy smile. If you’re curious as to whether or not you need fillings, continue on.
The best way to know whether or not you need a filling is to visit your dentist on a routine basis. Each time you visit the dentist, they inspect each and every one of your teeth in search of decay. Dentists can recognize the signs of decay early, which is why it is best to see your dentist at least twice a year.
In addition to visiting your dentist biannually, you should also pay attention to the way your teeth feel. If a tooth begins to feel sensitive, you should schedule a dentist appointment to look for tooth decay. Sensitivity is one of the first signs of tooth decay. You may experience this sensitivity when eating something sweet, cold, or hot.
The sooner you identify tooth decay, the better. A dentist can remove the decay before it grows. Then, they can fill the area where the decay was removed to prevent bacteria from getting back into the area. The filling also improves your smile and helps you feel more confident.
There are several different types of fillings. Two of the main types of fillings are tooth-colored fillings and silver amalgam. The tooth-colored fillings are designed to match the color of your tooth, looking as natural as possible. Meanwhile, silver amalgam is darker in color. This option is less expensive and is more effective against wear and tear. However, it is also more noticeable.
If you suspect you may be experiencing tooth decay or you are in need of a filling, get in touch with Dr. Marshall Skopp, DMD. You can reach our offices by phone at 718-982-5230. We are located at 2040 Forest Avenue in Staten Island, New York, and we hope to help you achieve a healthy smile!