HEIDI SPROWLS DDS
CENTERVILLE, OHIO
DENTAL FILLINGS
DENTAL FILLINGS
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE A BROKEN OR MISSING DENTAL FILLING
If you have lost or have a broken dental filling, it is important to contact our office as quickly as possible. Heidi Sprowls DDS makes it a priority to treat dental emergencies as quickly as possible in our nearby Centerville office. Please contact the Centerville office as soon as you can to schedule emergency dental treatment.
Dental patients no longer have to worry about unsightly, uncomfortable metal dental fillings. Today’s dental fillings are highly esthetic and virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. At the same time, these “white” dental fillings offer excellent long term protection for teeth that are weak or damaged. Depending on your condition, Heidi Sprowls DDS may select a resin or porcelain dental filling.
Resin dental fillings are commonly referred to as “white” fillings and can be matched and shaped to blend seamlessly with your smile. They are also nearly indistinguishable from the natural tooth. These types of fillings are made from a biocompatible composite resin which is applied directly to the tooth. They are mercury free, highly durable, and decay and stain resistant. Heidi Sprowls DDS typically uses resin dental fillings to repair teeth with minor decay or damage. Resin dental fillings are long lasting, but not permanent. They are used as part of a conservative treatment plan to protect the tooth from future damage.
REPLACING METAL DENTAL FILLINGS
Do you have old amalgam (metal) dental fillings that are impacting the appearance of your smile or breaking down and coming out? You can choose to have them replaced by Heidi Sprowls DDS. Modern advances in cosmetic dentistry mean that you no longer need to suffer from unsightly and uncomfortable silver/mercury fillings. Whether your motives are cosmetic or out of health or comfort concerns, metal dental fillings can easily be removed and replaced with more esthetic tooth colored ones for a more comfortable and natural looking restoration.
For teeth that have large metal fillings, a dental crown may yield the best results. The dental crown will add stability to the tooth and conceal any discoloration that may have been caused as a result of the metal filling.
FAQS ABOUT DENTAL FILLINGS
Q: When is it too late to get a tooth filling?
A: If a cusp (pointed part of molar or premolar) breaks off, in this case a crown would be necessary. Another situation would be if a cavity grows so large that it reaches the pulp of your tooth, a dental filling won’t fix the issue. In this situation, you would need a root canal.
Q: Do fillings remove decay?
A: Before a Heidi Sprowls DDS places a filling, we must remove the decayed or damaged portion of your tooth. Leaving diseased tissue behind can cause the cavity to grow larger.
Q: Does getting a filling hurt?
A: Getting a filling shouldn’t hurt because Heidi Sprowls DDS will use local anesthesia to numb the area. If you feel any discomfort during your procedure, let your us know so we can give you more numbing medication.
Q: Can I eat after a filling?
A: Technically, you can eat or drink whatever you want as soon as your procedure is over. It won’t damage your new filling in any way. But waiting until the numbness wears off can keep you from accidentally biting the inside of your cheeks. If you do eat right away, chew slowly and be mindful.
Q: How long does it take to recover after a dental filling procedure?
A: Unless you had sedation, you should be able to return to routine activities immediately after your appointment. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Advil®) can help manage any soreness or sensitivity.
Q: Are amalgam fillings safe?
A: The American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and numerous public health agencies say that silver (mercury-based) amalgam fillings are safe.
Q: How Long Will My Filling Last?
A: Fillings do not last forever, contrary to popular belief. A filling usually lasts on average anywhere from 3-7 years, but you will need to attend regular annual dental examinations and be a great flosser to make certain it’s holding up well. If you see any discoloration, darkening, or chipping under the filling, schedule to see your Heidi Sprowls DDS immediately. These signs may indicate breakdown of the existing filling and the need to have it replaced..