There’s no more common dental procedure than a filling. But, even for the select few who’ve somehow avoided all dental imperfections, the thought of getting a filling probably doesn’t inspire much stress.
For this reason, we probably take these procedures a bit for granted. We’re here today to “fill” that knowledge gap!
What to Expect During a Dental Filling Procedure
When the surface of a person’s tooth develops a cavity or lesion, a dental filling is used to restore the tooth’s strength and structural integrity and to help prevent further damage.
During a dental filling procedure, the dentist will typically first apply a small dose of a local anesthetic to the affected area. After this, the dentist will clean the cavity and the area around the damage, removing any decay, and fill in the cavity or lesion with what is, effectively, a quick-drying cement comprised of one of a variety of materials. The most common among these are:
- Amalgam – a combination of metals, including silver, copper, and mercury; durable, long-lasting, and inexpensive, but aesthetically lacking
- Composite resin – a mixture of plastic and glass materials; popular for its use in tooth-colored fillings
- Porcelain crown – pricier than fillings but highly durable, long-lasting, and tooth-colored, used for large fillings that weaken the tooth.
The material used for a filling is usually determined by the location in the mouth and the extent of damage to the tooth.
How Long Do Dental Fillings Last?
As noted, dental filling procedures are the most straightforward in dentistry and are typically completed during a single visit. So here’s some more good news!
Though it’s tough to determine precisely how long a filling “should” last due to factors like materials used in the filling, the patient’s eating and oral hygiene habits, and the pre-filling level of damage to the tooth, a dental filling can be expected to last between seven and fifteen years, with many lasting at least a decade!
Dental Fillings in Gretna, LA
If you’re in the Gretna, LA area and would like to learn more about your options, including fillings, contact dentist Dr. Russell Schafer and the NOLA Denture and General Dentistry team to schedule a consultation!