Modbury Dentist – free of decay and restore its form and function. The ability to regain what nature has destroyed due to our unfortunate lapses in oral hygiene is exciting and the team at Tea Tree Dental in Modbury would very much like to ensure you are well-informed and comfortable with the process.
Modbury Dentist
What is involved in getting a tooth filled?
Tooth Filling Process
At Tea Tree Dental we utilise the best available techniques and materials to ensure your tooth is restored in form and function. In six steps you can have a reformed tooth:
- You will be given local anaesthesia to numb the area around the tooth so you don’t feel a thing.
- The tooth will be isolated with a rubber sheet, making it easier for your dentist to visualise the decay and decreasing the risk of saliva contaminating the unset filling.
- Your dentist will use a drill to remove any decay and then appropriately shape the cavity for the filling.
- The cavity will be prepared and cleaned with acid gels before placing the filling.
- Your dentist will layer resin materials and harden it using a bright blue light.
- Once the filling has been placed, your dentist will polish the tooth.
Then you can simply enjoy your new, strong filling – no need to wait to eat or drink!
“The Modbury Dentist the community trusts”
How long does a filling take?
Typically, your appointment could be as long as 30-60mins. This will depend on several factors, including the size and complexity of the cavity. Sometimes there may be unforeseen complications that will be resolved as well.
How long should a tooth hurt after a filling?
We aim to ensure you don’t experience any discomfort but sometimes a tooth can feel sensitive for a week or two after it has been filled. You may wish to use sensitive toothpaste to provide some relief but if symptoms persist please call Tea Tree Dental for further guidance.
If you begin to have pains that feel like an actual toothache, this may mean that the decay had affected the nerve before we could save it. In these instances, you’ll have to return to Tea Tree Dental to commence root canal therapy if you wish to save the tooth.
How long are fillings supposed to last?
The life of your filling is dependent on various factors, some we can control and others we cannot. Primarily, the cleaner you keep your mouth, the longer your fillings will tend to last – this means brushing twice a day and visiting us every 6 months for maintenance. Other factors include:
- Size and depth of your cavity – typically a smaller filling will tend to last longer than a larger filling, which is why you may best be suited for a crown
- Dry mouth – if you suffer from dry mouth it is likely your fillings will fail sooner as the natural antibacterial properties of saliva aren’t as effective
- Diet – a diet high in acids and sugars will reduce the life of your fillings
- Material choice – resins do not last as long as gold or ceramics, and large fillings do not last as long as crowns
- Frequency of dental visits – typically if you return for regular 6-monthly maintenance your fillings will tend to last longer
How can we help?
Come have a chat – we’re close to Golden Grove!
Your dentist at Tea Tree Dental, situated near Tea Tree Plaza, will strive to provide you with the best advice and treatment plan to ensure the long-term success of your dental treatment. We aim to balance your dental health needs with your priorities ensuring you leave us completely satisfied. We know that this is possible by encouraging all our patients to involve themselves in treatment decisions because at the end of the day it is your mouth!
Feel free to talk to us for further advice and information on 08 7226 3559.
The Modbury Dentist the community trusts.