5 Things to Consider Before Getting Dental Fillings

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5 Things to Consider Before Getting Dental Fillings

You might think that dental fillings are pretty simple to get. You develop a cavity, visit the dentist and have it filled. However, there are some important things to know before having this procedure done. As a patient, it is your right and responsibility to learn some important facts. After all, you want teeth that stay healthy and beautiful.

What are dental fillings?

Simply put, dental fillings come in a variety of materials used to seal cavities. That way, there is no risk of decay. Without having a tooth filled, food particles and bacteria could get inside. If that happens, the decay would likely spread. Even worse, the person could develop an infection. Therefore, it is essential to see a dentist at the first sign of trouble.

Important considerations

Although having a tooth filled is extremely common, people need to know a few things. For instance, dentists offer different materials Also, an individual may not even need to have a tooth filled. Rather than a filling, an entirely different procedure has to be done.

1.Reasons for needing a filling

Patients need to understand why the dentist recommends filling a tooth. While at the dental clinic, the dentist will explain the reason. The dental professional will also explain the potential risks of not having a tooth filled. Part of treating patients is educating them. As a result, an individual will feel more comfortable having other teeth filled if required. In addition to cavities, dental fillings correct cracks and chips.

2.Choosing the right material

Today, people can choose between many different types of dental fillings. Gold is an option, although rarely used. Silver is another common material. However, more people choose tooth-colored fillings. The primary benefit is the filling blends in with the natural tooth. In other words, the filling is completely unnoticeable. Both gold and silver typically last up to 15 years while composite fillings have a life span of about 10.

3.The cost of fillings

Another thing that patients should know before getting dental fillings is the overall cost because each material has a different price. Gold fillings are usually the most expensive. Next are composite and porcelain fillings, followed by silver. In addition to the material, patients need to account for the trip to the dental clinic. Even the size of the filling matters. In some instances, patients require more extensive dental work, which will impact the cost.

4.Proper maintenance and care

To help dental fillings last a long time, patients need to learn about proper maintenance and care. For the most part, people will treat them like normal teeth. That means brushing and flossing after every meal. It also entails rinsing with a mouthwash that contains fluoride for added protection. Doing these steps will prevent the filling from breaking down prematurely.

5.Beyond cavities

While the primary purpose of dental fillings is to seal cavities, there are additional reasons. For instance, if someone fractures a tooth, a dentist might opt to fill it. Whether caused by a car accident or a fall, the filling protects the tooth. Dental fillings also correct discoloration. If someone has one or more stained teeth, a filling will fix it. Fillings also help with the gradual loss of a tooth’s structure.

Talk to your dentist

If you think you might need dental fillings, make an appointment to see your dentist. The one thing you do not want to do is wait too long. That would only create a risk of a decay that a filling cannot correct. During your visit, the two of you can discuss all your options.

Request an appointment here: or call Gilroy Dental Associates at (408) 842-2818 for an appointment in our Gilroy office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

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