How Are Modern Fillings Different?

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No one wants to get a cavity, but when it happens, it’s nice to know that you have a choice of fillings. Unlike the fillings from decades ago, modern fillings are more suited to today’s needs. They offer improved appearance, higher durability and more safety. Here’s more information about how modern fillings are different, and what you can expect from your dentist in Woodbridge, VA.

What Were Traditional Fillings Made From?

For decades, amalgam fillings were the standard in dentist offices around the world. They were made from a mix of materials like mercury, tin, silver and copper. Though they did the job, they had several drawbacks. For one, they didn’t last as long as modern fillings. It was common for them to disintegrate over time or fall out. Worse, in later years it was found that the mercury in the fillings caused a health hazard; so much so that some patients had their mercury fillings removed when modern fillings became available.

What Are Modern Fillings Made From?

Modern fillings can be made from materials such as composite resin, porcelain and glass ionomer cement, all of which are commonly used. Composite resin fillings are arguably the most popular, since they offer the dental patient a choice of hues. This means that, unlike traditional metal fillings that were highly visible, resin fillings blend in with the natural color of the teeth. They aren’t quite invisible, but one would need to look very hard to detect modern resin fillings in the molars.

When you need cavity fillings in Woodbridge, VA, trust the professionals at Niles Dental. Note that you can still get amalgam fillings that are made of metal and are silver-colored. These are more visible, yet they feature the best benefits of modern fillings, just like resin composite fillings. Contact us today to learn more!

How Does a Tooth Filling Work?

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Cavities are a way of life for many of us. However, while they’re common, a lot of people don’t get them treated properly. This can lead to a whole host of dental concerns, including tooth loss.

Here at Niles Dental, we can provide the cavity treatment you need. With a trusted tooth filling from our experienced team, you can say goodbye to your cavity for good! We offer the best tooth fillings in Woodbridge, VA!

Keep reading to learn more about tooth fillings, including how the procedure works.

What’s a Tooth Filling?

A tooth filling, also called a dental filling, is a dental solution that “fills in” decayed or missing areas on teeth. While fillings are used to fix cracks and chips, their top purpose is cavity repair. There are two types of dental fillings: direct and indirect. Direct fillings don’t require the use of a laboratory to design the restoration, which isn’t the case for indirect fillings. Indirect fillings are made in a laboratory and placed over two office visits.

Tooth Filling Procedure: What to Expect

Keep in mind that not all tooth filling procedures are created equal. The exact steps depend on the type of filling you and your dentist choose, among other factors.

Here’s a general sense of what you can expect from a tooth filling procedure.

Once the process begins, your dentist will:

  1. Numb the area with local anesthesia.
  2. Use special tools to remove decayed or damaged tissue.
  3. Fill and repair the hole with filling material.
  4. Harden the material using a dental curing light.
  5. Polish, clean up, and smooth any rough edges on the tooth.
  6. Examine the bite to ensure it’s normal.

That’s it! Tooth fillings are a quick and simple way to boost your dental health.

Think you may need a tooth filling? Contact Niles Dental today to get started! We’re happy to have the most trusted dentist in Woodbridge, VA.