Fillings and
Dental Restoration Treatment
Dental restoration, also known as a dental filling, is a common dental procedure but still needs to be well done or it will need to be re-done. Chilliwack Family Dentistry provides a wide range of dental services: from restoration work to endodontics, periodontics, orthodontics and more.
Dental Fillings
Composite fillings – a composite, or tooth colored, filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, and/or fractures. The affected portion of the tooth is removed and then the tooth is re-filled with a composite filling.
The most commonly used fillings today are composite fillings as they can be most closely matched to your existing teeth colour however there are some reasons to use silver amalgam fillings.
Dental fillings are not permanent and will need to be replaced over time. They are durable and provide your teeth with additional strength and protection.
Reasons for Dental Restoration
- You can use fillings to smooth out chipped teeth.
- You can close or narrow the space between two teeth with a dental filling.
- If you have a cracked or broken tooth, you can repair it through dental restoration work.
- You can remove decay from your tooth and fill the void with a filling.
- If you are wearing down your teeth, you can re-build them with dental restoration work.
Procedure for Composite Fillings:
- Composite fillings usually are completed in one appointment.
- You may require an anesthetic while we remove the decay from the tooth.
- The tooth will be cleaned thoroughly and prepared before the dental filling is placed.
- If there is decay close to the nerve of the tooth, there may be a requirement for additional medication.
- The composite filling will be placed into the space, shaped and fitted and polished to re-create the original tooth shape and function.
It is common to experience a sensitivity to hot and cold food and drink after your filling is first placed, this should sensation should go away after your tooth adjusts – if not, it is important to come back to our office for a check-up.
We will provide care instructions at the end of your dental restoration work; you need to practice good oral hygiene (regular and effective brushing and flossing) and visit us regularly to ensure that your teeth are well maintained and that your fillings have a ‘long life’.