Dental Fillings in Rockville, MD
Tooth decay is a common dental ailment that pops up often. It commonly leads to tooth pain and can affect people of any age. Tooth decay occurs when plaque has built up on your teeth and the enamel on your teeth begins to erode. Unfortunately, this is a widespread dental problem, especially among children and adolescents because of bad oral hygiene habits.
Dental fillings are the standard in repairing tooth decay. Most patients will receive a tooth filling to address tooth decay at some point in their life. For mild to moderate decay, dental fillings restore the health and integrity of the tooth structure.
The dentist color-matches composite resin dental fillings to blend naturally with your tooth. These fillings are strong, and they can last for many years with proper oral hygiene. Composite resin fillings can also replace old metal fillings. Patients who have metal fillings, particularly in the “Smile Zone”, may choose to replace them will white dental fillings.
Dr. Ali Sarkarzadeh offers composite resin tooth fillings, inlays, and onlays to treat tooth decay in Rockville, MD. Tooth decay is a common dental health concern that will affect most patients at some point during their life. Early diagnosis allows for conservative dental treatment, saving patients time, money, and stress. Regularly schedule bi-annual dental checkups, and routine dental cleanings can help prevent tooth decay.
Dental Filling Procedure: What to Expect
Dr. Sarkarzadeh can typically complete a dental filling treatment in just one visit to our Rockville dental office. Although many patients become anxious at the thought of a dental filling, most experience no discomfort during their treatment.
Dr. Sarkarzadeh will begin treatment by administering a local anesthetic for your comfort. Once you are comfortable and numb, he will begin removing the decayed tissue from the tooth. Once he removes all diseased tissue, he will thoroughly clean the tooth and prepare it for filling.
Our dentist applies the filling compound of choice to the tooth and permanently bonds it. This will provide you with a natural-looking and comfortable surface for normal chewing and speaking. Your tooth filling should last for many years with good oral hygiene and routine dental care.
The goal of dental fillings is to protect the tooth from any further damage. The dental procedure essentially preserves the natural tooth to support your long-term oral health. Dental fillings can also repair chipped, fractured, and worn teeth.
If you ignore tooth decay, it progresses into a larger problem and a filling will not be able to fix it. Dental fillings also help you avoid needing a dental crown, a root canal procedure, or even a tooth extraction.
Preventing tooth decay starts at home with good oral hygiene habits. Good daily oral hygiene and routine dental appointments are the keys to minimizing your risk of tooth decay. Thus minimizing your need for a tooth filling, and provide the foundation for excellent lifelong dental health.
Dental Filling FAQs
Is it bad to have a lot of dental fillings?
No, having a lot of dental fillings is not bad for you or your teeth. Fillings help your mouth recover from cavities and can prevent new ones from forming, along with good oral health practices. Fillings add more support to your teeth and keep them strong and healthy.
Can a dental filling be redone?
Yes, dentists can redo a dental filling for a number of reasons. The most common reason patients get a filling redone is because their old amalgam filling is failing. Fillings that fail cause tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and new infections. Your dentist can remove your old filling and apply a new resin filling in a single visit.
Do I need to fill small cavities?
Dentists should examine cavities of all sizes, although there are some special cases for small cavities. A small cavity that has not penetrated through tooth enamel might not need a filling. However, you should still see the dentist for their professional recommendation. Do not self-diagnose without talking to your dentist first.
What materials do dentists use in a dental filling?
A dentist can use composite resin, which matches the color of your teeth. There’s also amalgam, a silver-colored material, and gold or porcelain fillings for a more durable and natural-looking option. Your dentist will suggest the best material to meet your specific needs. Dr. Sarkarzadeh will suggest a composite resin tooth filling if the cavity is in your smile line. Composite resin will match the color of your surrounding teeth and is very durable.
How long does a composite resin dental filling last?
Composite resin fillings can last several years, typically between 5 to 7 years. However, they can last longer with proper care. Composite resin fillings are a durable and long-lasting option for restoring teeth. Still, their lifespan can vary. The lifespan of your filling depends on factors like oral hygiene and the location.
What should I do if my dental filling falls out?
If your dental filling falls out, please call us as soon as possible. Dr. Sarkarzadeh needs to assess the tooth and figure out the next step. He may reapply the filling or explore other treatments to restore your tooth and prevent further damage.
What will happen if I refuse a filling for a cavity?
If you refuse a filling for a cavity, the decay in your tooth will continue to progress. Tooth decay progressions will lead to more tooth damage, pain, and potential infection. Without treatment, the cavity may grow larger, potentially causing more extensive issues and even tooth loss. It’s best to address cavities early to prevent these complications.
Are you ready to stop your tooth sensitivity and fill those cavities? Get affordable teeth fillings at Congressional Dental Care today. Call us at (301) 276-4694 to set up an appointment when you are ready.